New Zealand Tours in January 2026

What our customers ask about New Zealand Tours in January 2026

• What is the weather like in New Zealand during January?

  New Zealand's summer peaks in January with reliable conditions for outdoor exploration. The North Island sees temperatures of 20-25°C (68-77°F) while the South Island stays slightly cooler at 18-22°C (64-72°F). Coastal regions like Abel Tasman National Park offer warm swimming conditions. According to TourRadar travelers "January offered perfect weather for hiking the Tongariro Crossing and exploring outdoor attractions." Mountain areas including Mount Cook remain cool enough to warrant bringing extra layers.

• What are the most popular activities to do in New Zealand during January?

  The warm January weather opens up classic New Zealand experiences. Visitors can join glacier walks at Franz Josef trek through Fiordland National Park or go kayaking in Abel Tasman. The Marlborough wine region welcomes tasters while Rotorua's thermal springs provide year-round warmth. A TourRadar traveler notes "spending time on the water in January whether it's kayaking in Raglan's black sand beaches or taking a scenic cruise through Milford Sound - the waterfalls are spectacular this time of year." Key lodging options range from the urban QT Auckland to the nature-focused Te Waonui Forest Retreat near Franz Josef.

• Are there any special events or festivals in New Zealand during January?

  The summer calendar fills with festivals across New Zealand during January. Highlights include Christchurch's World Buskers Festival the Auckland Folk Festival and food and wine celebrations in Marlborough and Central Otago. According to a TourRadar review "The summer festival atmosphere in January really adds to the experience especially in places like Queenstown where there's live music and events happening outdoors." Festival-goers often base themselves at the Furneaux Lodge in Marlborough Sounds or Edgewater Lake Wanaka.

• What are the best regions to visit in New Zealand during January?

  January brings optimal conditions to several key regions. The Coromandel Peninsula offers prime beach time at Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. Queenstown buzzes with summer adventure sports while the Bay of Islands presents ideal sailing weather. Glacier hiking peaks at Franz Josef under clear summer skies. As one TourRadar reviewer shared: "The South Island was particularly breathtaking in January - we had crystal clear views of Mount Cook and perfect conditions for the Milford Sound cruise." Consider stays at Franz Josef's Rainforest Retreat or YHA Queenstown Central.

• How crowded are major tourist attractions in January?

  Peak season crowds gather at popular sites like Hobbiton Milford Sound and the TranzAlpine train during January. Advance booking becomes essential for activities at Franz Josef Glacier and Rotorua's Te Puia. A TourRadar reviewer observed "Popular spots like Queenstown and the Bay of Islands were bustling in January but staying at hotels like QT Queenstown or The Duke of Marlborough in Russell helped us escape the crowds."

• What wildlife encounters are best in New Zealand during January?

  January creates prime conditions for marine wildlife viewing especially in Kaikoura where sperm whales dolphins and seals frequent the waters. The Bay of Islands' warm waters attract diverse sea life while Wellington's Zealandia sanctuary offers excellent bird watching. The Kaikoura Waterfront Hotel provides a strategic base for wildlife enthusiasts. As shared by a TourRadar reviewer: "The wildlife spotting in Kaikoura was incredible in January - we saw multiple whale breaches and huge pods of dolphins."