What special events and festivals can I experience in New Zealand during December?

December brings a vibrant mix of summer festivals and holiday celebrations to New Zealand. Major cities like Auckland and Christchurch host open-air Christmas in the Park concerts that draw thousands of locals and visitors. Food enthusiasts can head to Queenstown for the Central Otago Wine & Food Festival. The geothermal city of Rotorua offers holiday-themed Maori performances and traditional hangi feasts at Te Puia. For movie buffs the Hobbiton Movie Set transforms into a festive wonderland with evening tours that show off the decorated Shire.

What are the accommodation options and rates like in December?

December marks the high season in New Zealand with rooms filling up quickly. High-end properties like the Cordis in Auckland and QT Queenstown command $200-500 USD per night. Nature lovers can book stays at places like the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier which puts guests close to natural wonders. Budget-conscious travelers will find hostels and motels available at lower rates though these also require advance booking. Most properties increase their rates during this peak period making early reservations essential.

What kind of weather can I expect in New Zealand's South Island during December?

The South Island enjoys warm summer days in December with temperatures typically reaching 20-25°C (68-77°F). The Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook regions offer clear skies ideal for outdoor activities while coastal areas like Kaikoura maintain comfortable temperatures. Visitors should note that mountain weather can change quickly. The Wild Kiwi tour reports "20 April - 3 May best weather!! First week we had 18 people and the next week 7." Packing layers remains essential especially around glacial areas.

How do transportation costs and availability differ in December?

Peak season pricing affects all transport options in December. Domestic flights connecting Auckland to Queenstown typically cost between $150-300 USD. The scenic TranzAlpine train running from Christchurch to Greymouth costs $160-200 USD per passenger. The Interislander Ferry between the North and South Islands sees high demand. Transport operators recommend booking at least 3-4 months ahead particularly for popular routes during this busy period.

What are the best Christmas-themed experiences in New Zealand?

New Zealand's Christmas celebrations blend traditional holiday customs with local culture. Auckland's Franklin Road becomes a light-filled wonderland while Wellington's Te Papa museum curates special holiday exhibits. In Rotorua Te Puia combines Christmas festivities with Maori cultural experiences. The Walter Peak High Country Farm near Queenstown offers holiday dining with views across Lake Wakatipu creating memorable Christmas experiences for visitors.

What wildlife experiences are available in New Zealand during December?

December's warm weather creates prime conditions for wildlife viewing. Kaikoura's waters attract sperm whales dolphins and seals making it a top spot for marine life encounters. Abel Tasman National Park offers opportunities to spot native birds including the melodious Tui and the ancient Tuatara. Guided tours provide access to these natural habitats while boat excursions along the Kaikoura Coast bring visitors close to thriving seal colonies.

New Zealand Tours in December 2026

10 best New Zealand trips in December 2026

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Explorer
The Moa Tour
4.5 (2 traveler reviews)
Duration
17 days
Destinations
Auckland, Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington,Abel Tasman National Park,Westport,Hokitika,Franz Josef,Wanaka,Queenstown,Milford Sound,Lake Tekapo,Christchurch+9 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Operated in
English
Operator
Kiwi Experience
From
US$1,638per person
Price based on Shared Room
3 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
6 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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Explorer
New Zealand Southern Pioneer
2.3 (4 traveler reviews)
Duration
10 days
Destinations
Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Twizel,Kawarau Gorge,Queenstown,Arrowtown,Wanaka,Lake Hawea,Lake Wanaka,Franz Josef,Greymouth,Arthur's Pass National Park+9 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Country Region
New Zealand South Island
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
10% Off
From $3,920
US$3,528per person
Price based on Private Double Room
4 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
7 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
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Explorer
New Zealand South Island Express
4.3 (9 traveler reviews)
"Loved the whole trip. Our guide Duli was amazing he read our wishes from our lips and made them happen."
Maximilian, traveled in August
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Kawarau Gorge,Milford Sound,Arrowtown,Wanaka,Lake Wanaka,Franz Josef,Lake Hawea,Haast+7 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Country Region
New Zealand South Island
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
10% Off
From
US$1,510per person
Price based on Shared Room
1 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
8 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
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Explorer
Southern Crossing - Small Group Tour
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"Excellent south islamf tour going to the main spots!"
Nicolas, traveled in November
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park,Castle Hill Peak,Franz Josef,Lake Hawea,Wanaka,Queenstown,Te Anau,Milford Sound,Lake Tekapo+8 more
Age Range
Ages 18-49
Country Region
New Zealand South Island
Operated in
English
Operator
Kiwi Experience
10% Off
From
US$1,152per person
Price based on Shared Room
14 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
29 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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Explorer
19-Day Ruru Select: The Premier New Zealand North & South Island Journey (Auckland Start)
5.0 (3 traveler reviews)
"The 19 day Ruru tour was fantastic! All of the sites and options for activities were great."
Mary, traveled in January
Duration
19 days
Destinations
Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua, Hot Water Beach,Lake Aniwhenua,Taupo,Whanganui National Park,Tongariro National Park,Wellington,Picton,Marahau,Abel Tasman National Park,Punakaiki,Hokitika,Franz Josef,Wanaka,Queenstown,Te Anau,Milford Sound,Lake Pukaki,Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park,Mount Cook,Lake Tekapo,Christchurch+20 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Operated in
English
Operator
Stray Travel
20% Off
From $4,364
US$3,491per person
Price based on Private Double Room
2 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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Explorer
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
4.6 (26 traveler reviews)
"Great tour to experience 2 weeks of the highlights of the South island."
Jolien, traveled in December
Duration
16 days
Destinations
Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Foulwind,Westport,Punakaiki,Franz Josef,Queenstown,Fiordland National Park,Milford Sound,Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park,Lake Tekapo,Christchurch,Kaikoura,Picton+11 more
Age Range
Ages 18-39
Country Region
New Zealand South Island
Operated in
English
Operator
G Adventures
25% Off
From $2,699
US$2,024per person
Price based on Shared Room
3 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
10 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
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Explorer
Premium New Zealand North Island
5.0 (3 traveler reviews)
"We thoroughly enjoyed our time in New Zealand. We are grateful to Runty for his leadership skills, friendliness and professional guiding."
John, traveled in November
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo,Tongariro National Park,Ohakune,Wellington+3 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Country Region
New Zealand North Island
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Premium
10% Off
From $5,390
US$4,851per person
Price based on Private Double Room
3 Dec, 2026
8 spaces left
10 Dec, 2026
9 spaces left
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In-depth Cultural
Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
4.7 (9 traveler reviews)
"Great stops with lots of information and photo opportunities."
Kathleen, traveled in March
Duration
12 days
Destinations
Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitomo, Rotorua, Christchurch,Arthur's Pass National Park,Lake Tekapo,Mount Cook,Wanaka,Arrowtown,Queenstown,Fiordland National Park+7 more
Age Range
Ages 12+
Country Region
New Zealand South Island
Operated in
English
Operator
National Geographic Expeditions with G Adventures
25% Off
From $6,419
US$4,814per person
Price based on Private Double Room
6 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
13 Dec, 2026
9 spaces left
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Explorer
9-Day Pukeko Select: The Essential North Island New Zealand Journey (Auckland to Wellington)
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua, Lake Aniwhenua, Taupo,Whanganui National Park,Tongariro National Park,Wellington+3 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Country Region
New Zealand North Island
Operated in
English
Operator
Stray Travel
20% Off
From $2,279
US$1,823per person
Price based on Private Double Room
2 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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Explorer
Premium - South Island Escape
5.0 (2 traveler reviews)
"Everything is set safe in mind before my trip starts. This was my best experience with Tour Radar!"
YAJUAN, traveled in November
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Te Anau, Milford Sound,Queenstown,Franz Josef+2 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Country Region
New Zealand South Island
Operated in
English
Operator
Wild Kiwi
20% Off
From
US$2,391per person
+$359 upfront costs
Price based on Private Double Room
5 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
19 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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$New Zealand\'s North to South Island Adventure Tour$
$New Zealand\'s North to South Island Adventure - 9 destinations$
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Explorer
New Zealand's North to South Island Adventure
4.5 (75 traveler reviews)
"A well planned out tour giving a rich experience. This is it!!!!!!"
Arjan, traveled in November
Duration
11 days
Destinations
Auckland, Coromandel, Rotorua, Murupara, Taupo, Wellington,Marlborough,Kaikoura,Christchurch+3 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
20% Off
From
US$2,190per person
Price based on Shared Room
5 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
19 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
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Hiking & Trekking
11-Day Takahe Select: The Ultimate South Island New Zealand Loop (Christchurch Start)
5.0 (4 traveler reviews)
"The tour was well-organized, with comfortable hotels, and a great group of like-minded tourists."
Tammy, traveled in November
Duration
11 days
Destinations
Christchurch, Marahau, Hokitika, Franz Josef,Milford Sound,Te Anau,Mount Cook+3 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Regions
New Zealand South IslandSouthern Alps+1 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Stray Travel
20% Off
From $2,747
US$2,198per person
Price based on Private Single Room
10 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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Explorer
Auckland Explorer New Zealand City Stay
5.0 (2 traveler reviews)
"Four tours with time to ourselves. great vacation."
Marc, traveled in July
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Auckland, Rotorua
Age Range
Ages 6+
Country Region
New Zealand North IslandBay Of Plenty+1 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Travel Made Easy Pty Ltd
20% Off
From
US$1,498per person
Price based on Private Double Room
1 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
2 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
- Booking needs min. 2 travelers
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Our most booked and loved tours
Best Seller
Active
Southern Voyager
4.7 (111 traveler reviews)
"The itinerary is excellent and very well planned with different activities for everyone."
Gonzalo, traveled in January
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound,Franz Josef+1 more
Age Range
Ages 18-39
Physical Rating
Active
Regions
New Zealand South IslandMilford Sound+1 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Wild Kiwi
10% Off
From $1,144
US$1,030per person
+$171 upfront costs
Price based on Shared Room
5 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
12 Dec, 2026
10+ spaces left
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In-depth Cultural
Highlights of New Zealand
4.6 (47 traveler reviews)
"The trip exceeded our expectations, providing excellent value for money for a diverse group."
Lynette, traveled in October
Duration
15 days
Destinations
Auckland, Hahei, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura,Christchurch,Franz Josef,Queenstown,Milford Sound+4 more
Age Range
Ages 12+
Operated in
English
Operator
G Adventures
10% Off
From
US$4,599per person
Price based on Private Double Room
3 Dec, 2026
1 space left
10 Dec, 2026
10 spaces left
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