Weather
February (along with January) sees the hottest temperatures. The upper North Island (Northland, Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula) and parts of the South Island (Nelson, parts of Canterbury, parts of Central Otago) get average highs of around 77°F (25°C). However, it's also not unusual for these places to get temperatures above 86°F (30°C) in the summer, sometimes for several days at a time. New Zealand is an island nation, so it doesn't get the same extreme heat that is common in neighboring Australia, but hot temperatures are not unusual. Plus, the north (Northland, Auckland in particular) is quite humid.
At the same time, parts of the country can be quite cool in the summer. Snow can fall at any time of year in the higher alpine areas, although this is much less common in February. You might be enjoying a pleasant summer day in Queenstown, and then wake up to a fresh sprinkling of snow on the mountains surrounding the city the next day. The average summer high in Queenstown, in the south of the South Island, is a cooler 71°F (22°C).
Summer is normally the driest time of year. You'll see evidence of this when traveling around the country, as farmland that's a bright green for most of the year will be brown and dry. The exception however is when an ex-tropical cyclone passes by, or through, the country. The Pacific islands farther north experience numerous cyclones each summer, between November and April. On average, New Zealand feels the effects of these cyclones once per summer, in February or March, although they don't hit New Zealand every year.
These storms lose a significant amount of strength by the time they reach New Zealand, so are usually experienced here as bad storms, with high winds and heavy rain, but not widespread devastation. If you hear that a cyclone's coming your way while you're traveling in New Zealand in February, cancel any outdoor plans (such as multiday hikes) and choose indoor activities for a few days. Swap your tent for a hotel, too.
Crowds & Costs
February is peak tourism season for international travelers to New Zealand. But, local schools are back (usually at the end of January or the beginning of February), so you'll see a noticeable reduction of visitors at popular beaches, lakes, rivers, and other major attractions. February is also a better time to camp in New Zealand, because campsites won't be so crowded with local families. Always be aware of local laws regarding "free camping" as this isn't welcome in many parts of the country.
If you plan to cross the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton on the Interislander Ferry in February, book tickets in advance. Although February is generally less busy than January, it's still peak season with foreign visitors. Accommodation costs will be at peak season highs in February.
Where to Go
Everywhere in New Zealand is accessible in February. If you want to spend time at the beach, Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula are the best options in the North Island, and the area around Nelson, the Abel Tasman National Park, and Golden Bay are the best options in the South Island. But, because New Zealand has such a long coastline, you'll find a lovely beach practically anywhere that's on the coast. In general, the east coast of both islands has better swimming beaches, as the west coast has wilder seas with stronger currents and heavier surf.
Hiking and long-distance trekking are some of the country's biggest draws and February is one of the best times to lace up the hiking boots. Although you should always be prepared for unseasonably cold temperatures and changeable conditions anywhere in the country, especially on alpine hikes, the conditions are generally good in February. The most popular trails (such as the Department of Conservation's 10 "Great Walks") can get pretty busy in February—and less so than in January. Book accommodation en route (at DOC huts and campsites) in advance, or avoid the big-name treks like Tongariro Alpine Crossing and Abel Tasman Coast Track in favor of quieter trails in less busy areas.
While you can't ski in February (ski season runs from June to early October), this is a good time to make a road trip to the mountains. The Tongariro National Park in the central North Island, and Aoraki Mount Cook in the central South Island are ideal destinations, and they're easily accessible.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
February is a great time to hit up a beach, whether lazing on the sand, swimming, or trying water sports like surfing, standup paddleboarding boarding, or kayaking. At popular beaches on the weekends (and during the week in some places), Surf Life Saving patrols have a presence, so swim between the flags when they're flying.
As mentioned above, February is also a good time to go hiking. Conditions are likely to be hot and sunny, so bring sunscreen and plenty of water. But, you're less likely to encounter problematic rain, which can make trails muddy and slippery. New Zealanders themselves love to hike, so wherever you go in the country, you won't be far from a trail. Mountain biking is another fun activity this month. Trails are available for various levels of experience, from well-tended and marked tracks to more rugged and remote areas, where you'll be sharing the trails with trekkers.
City sightseeing and cultural activities can also be enjoyed in February, from the museums and galleries of Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, to the important historical sites of the Bay of Islands and the amazing natural features of Rotorua and Taupō. Travelers wanting to learn more about New Zealand colonial history should try to be at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands on February 6 (see below).
Events in February
Waitangi Day, Nationwide (February 6). This national holiday marks the date in 1840 when Māori chiefs signed an agreement with the British Crown. It's a foundational day in New Zealand's history, and often—depending on who is in government—can be a time of protest and the airing of grievances. The whole country takes a holiday on this day, but events at Waitangi itself, in Northland's Bay of Islands, are especially interesting.
Napier Art Deco Festival, Napier. Travel back to the 1930s and celebrate Napier's Art Deco heritage—the city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, and rebuilt largely in the Art Deco style.
Traveling to New Zealand in February? Check out these great itineraries
Northern New Zealand: Auckland, Bay of Islands & Matakana - 5 Days. On this short-yet-eventful tour, experience both the city and island life. Begin in Auckland, then, travel to the Bay of Islands and enjoy time in Paihia. Swim with dolphins, lounge on Te Ti Beach, and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided history tour and a cultural performance. The trip concludes with an excursion into the Waipoua Forest, with its famous trees and acclaimed Matakohe Kauri Museum.
New Zealand North to South Road Trip: Local Food, Wine, Culture & Nature - 19 Days. Get ready for an authentic road trip exploring New Zealand's charm, natural beauty, and local food and wine scene. You'll wind your way through the North and South islands, stopping at the finest vineyards in Hawke's Bay and Queenstown, cruising across serene Lake Taupo and the UNESCO-listed Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and exploring geothermal wonders in Rotorua.
More Helpful Information
New Zealand in January
New Zealand in March
Best Time of Year to Visit New Zealand
How Many Days to Spend in New Zealand