Tasman Holiday Parks

Tag: New Zealand

Top 5 Things To Do in Te Anau

by tasmanholidayparks

Explore the Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in New Zealand, and Te Anau is the gateway to this stunning area. The park is home to Milford Sound, one of the most famous fiords in the world, and Doubtful Sound, a less-known but equally breathtaking fiord.

You can take a scenic drive or a guided tour through the park, or you can opt for a helicopter or boat tour to get a closer look at the stunning scenery. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area, including the famous Milford Track.

Credit: Stewart Nimmo

Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves

The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit attraction in Te Anau. These caves are home to thousands of glowworms that light up the darkness with their bioluminescent glow.

You can take a guided tour through the caves, which includes a boat ride across an underground lake, a walk through the caves, and a chance to see the glowworms up close. It’s a magical experience that’s not to be missed.

Relax in our Holiday Park Hot Tubs and Sauna

If you’re looking to unwind and relax in Te Anau after a day of exploring, then Tasman Holiday Parks’ hot tubs and sauna are a perfect option. These facilities are set in a tranquil and scenic location, providing the perfect setting for a peaceful retreat.

The hot tubs alleviate all stress and allow you to relax and unwind, while the sauna is a great way to detoxify and rejuvenate your body. The beautiful surroundings of the park, combined with the relaxing effects of the hot tubs and sauna, create a calming atmosphere that will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau

Take a scenic flight over Te Anau

If you’re looking for a bird’s eye view of Te Anau and the surrounding area, then a scenic flight is the way to go. You can take a helicopter or fixed-wing plane tour that will take you over the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park, including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

You’ll get to see the dramatic mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and deep fiords from a unique perspective. It’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Credit: Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

Take in the beauty

Te Anau is also the perfect place to unwind and relax. Take in the tranquil setting of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains with a leisurely stroll around the lake along the boardwalk, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks in the area.

Te Anau is a peaceful and serene town that offers a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Where To Stay in Te Anau

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Te Anau, Tasman Holiday Parks is an excellent option for families, couples, and solo travelers. The park is centrally located with easy access to most of the attractions. Accommodation options include powered and unpowered sites, cabins, motels and a 3 bedroom villa, with a range of facilities to suit all needs.

The park features a games room, a playground, three wooden barrel hot tubs and sauna, a BBQ area, and a well-equipped camp kitchen, making it easy to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

With its great location, friendly staff, and excellent facilities, Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau is the perfect base for a holiday in Picton. Book your holiday today!

What is the Tiaki Promise?

by tasmanholidayparks

As a popular tourist destination, it’s important that visitors to the country take steps to protect the natural environment and cultural values that make New Zealand so special.

The Tiaki Promise is a code of conduct for visitors to New Zealand that encourages them to act as guardians of the country’s natural and cultural resources.

The Tiaki Promise is a commitment made by visitors to New Zealand to act as guardians of the country’s natural environment and cultural heritage. It was launched in 2018 by the New Zealand government in partnership with the tourism industry and the Maori community. The word “tiaki” means to care for, protect, and preserve, and the Tiaki Promise encourages visitors to do just that during their stay in New Zealand.

The Tiaki Promise is based on three principles:

Kaitiakitanga (guardianship): the concept of caring for the natural environment, including the land, sea, and wildlife.

Manaakitanga (hospitality): showing respect and kindness to others, including the people of New Zealand and their cultural heritage.

Whanaungatanga (belonging): building relationships and a sense of community with others, including the people of New Zealand and other visitors to the country.

How to apply the Tiaki Promise when you travel in New Zealand

As a visitor to New Zealand, there are many ways you can apply the Tiaki Promise during your stay:

Respect the Environment

  • Take only photos, leave only footprints. Don’t take anything from the environment, including rocks, shells, or plants.
  • Dispose of waste properly. New Zealand has a “pack in, pack out” policy, which means that you should take your rubbish with you when you leave.
  • Stay on designated trails. This helps to protect fragile ecosystems and reduce the impact of human activity on the environment.
Credit: Miles Holden

Show Respect for Cultural Heritage

The Maori people are the indigenous people of New Zealand and have a rich cultural heritage that is an important part of the country’s identity. To show respect for this cultural heritage, consider the following:

  • Learn about Maori culture. Take the time to learn about the history, customs, and traditions of the Maori people. This will help you to better understand and appreciate their cultural heritage.
  • Ask for permission before entering sacred sites. Some places in New Zealand are considered sacred to the Maori people, and it’s important to ask for permission before entering these areas.
  • Respect Maori customs and protocols. For example, remove your shoes before entering a marae (Maori meeting house), and avoid taking photos or videos without permission.
Credit: Miles Holden

Be a Responsible Traveller

As a responsible traveller, you can help reduce your impact on the environment and the local communities you visit. Here are some tips:

  • Use eco-friendly products. Choose environmentally-friendly products and services, such as reusable water bottles, cloth bags, and low-emission transport options.
  • Support local businesses. Buying from local businesses helps support the local economy and reduces the environmental impact of transportation.
  • Be mindful of your actions. Consider the impact of your actions on the environment and the people around you. For example, avoid making excessive noise, and be respectful of others.
Credit: Tom Gould

Find your moment of freedom at Tasman Holiday Parks – New Zealand

3 Days in Picton

by tasmanholidayparks

Picton, a charming coastal town located in the Marlborough Sounds region of New Zealand, is a popular destination for visitors looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, there’s no shortage of things to do in Picton. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your three-day trip to this picturesque town.

Day 1: Explore the Marlborough Sounds

Credit: Miles Holden
Credit: Miles Holden

Exploring Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand is a truly breathtaking experience. This beautiful and remote area is located at the top of the South Island and is known for its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and crystal clear waters.

Start your day with a scenic boat tour through the sounds and enjoy the stunning views of the lush green hills and deep blue waters. If you’re more of a water sports fan then try a guided kayak tour thorough the Sounds and truly immerse yourself in the nature reserves and spectacular surrounds.

Such activities are sure to work up your appetite and, being surrounded by the sea, Marlborough Sounds has a plethora of fresh seafood to offer. Try some of the local seafood restaurants and indulge in green-lipped mussels, oysters, and fish caught that day.

Day 2: Discover Picton’s History and Culture

On your second day in Picton, take a stroll through the town’s historic centre, where you’ll find a variety of historic buildings and cultural attractions.

Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the town’s maritime history and the story of the Edwin Fox, the world’s ninth oldest surviving ship. The Marlborough Museum, is also a must as it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history.

The Marlborough region is famous for its wine production, particularly its Sauvignon Blanc. After learning the town’s history be sure to stop by the famous Grove Mill Winery to take a wine tour and taste some of the local wines.

Day 3: Visit the Queen Charlotte Sound

Credit: Miles Holden

On your final day in Picton, take a boat tour of the Queen Charlotte Sound, a stunning area filled with scenic bays, hidden caves and secluded beaches. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and penguins.

In the afternoon, visit the Queen Charlotte Sound Lookout, where you can enjoy the most exquisite panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Where To Stay?

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family, we have the perfect space for you at Tasman Holiday Parks – Picton.

Book a villa, motel or, for budget-friendly travel, a self-contained cabin. If you’re camping and caravanning, take advantage of our top-notch facilities, including a well-equipped camp kitchen, clean and modern restrooms, solar-heated swimming pool and a playground for the kids.

Make Tasman Holiday Parks – Picton your home base when exploring Picton and its surrounds. With its central location, excellent facilities and welcoming staff, you’ll feel instantly relaxed as you arrive to your accommodation after a day of exploring.

10 Essentials to Pack for a Road Trip with Kids

by tasmanholidayparks

Here are our recommended essentials for a road trip with kids:

Snacks and Drinks

Having a variety of snacks and drinks on hand ensures that your little ones are satisfied and hydrated throughout the journey. Some healthy snacks such as fruit, granola bars, and crackers are great to have on hand, and of course a few treats like cookies or lollies for special moments.

Entertainment

Bring along plenty of entertainment options for your children, such as books, colouring books, and toys. If possible, a portable DVD player or tablet for movies and games is a great option too. Don’t forget to pack headphones for each child!

Portable Chargers

On that note – portable chargers are also essential for keeping your children’s devices charged and ready to use throughout the journey.

Pillow and Blankets

Comfortable sleeping arrangements are key for a successful road trip. Pack a pillow and blanket for each child to ensure they get a good nap in when needed.

First-Aid Kit

No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen. Pack a first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, anti-septic cream and any other necessary medications.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential, especially if you’re traveling in the summer months. Make sure to pack enough sunscreen for the entire trip, and re-apply it regularly throughout the day (on your little ones and yourself too!)

Wet Wipes

Wet wipes are a lifesaver! With snacks and drinks often comes sticky fingers and spills. Always be sure to have wet wipes ready and available for a quick and fuss-free clean up if needed.

Trash Bags

This is a good one to remember especially when travelling with children. Keep your car clean and organised throughout the trip and save yourself the effort of a big clean out when you arrive at your destination. Remember to pack enough for the drive there and back.

Change of Clothes

As we mentioned before, accidents happen. It’s always a good idea to pack extra clothes for your children that are easy to access without having to unpack the entire car or suitcase.

Car Games and Activities

Bring along car games and activities to keep your kids entertained and engaged during the journey. Games like “I Spy” and “20 Questions” are classic options, and colouring books and word search puzzles can also provide hours of entertainment.

While family road trips are fun, that time in the car can certainly feel a lot longer for your little ones! By packing smart and being prepared, you’ll be able to enjoy the journey and create lasting memories with your family.

The good news? Once you arrive at any of our Tasman Holiday Parks, there is an abundance of entertainment available for your little ones.

So, sit back, relax and enjoy your holiday.

Book your stay with us at Tasman Holiday Parks and enjoy your moments of freedom!

5 Best Day Trips From Christchurch

by tasmanholidayparks

Here are five of the best day trips from Christchurch:

Akaroa, Banks Peninsula

Credit: ChristchurchNZ
Credit: ChristchurchNZ

Located on the Banks Peninsula of New Zealand, Akaroa is a charming seaside village with a rich history and abundant natural beauty. Visitors to Akaroa can explore the historic French and British settlements, walk along the stunning volcanic cliffs and beaches, and go on a scenic boat tour to see the rare Hector’s dolphins, penguins, and other marine wildlife.

Adventure seekers can also go kayaking, fishing, or take a scenic flight to see Akaroa from above. For those interested in local culture and history, the Akaroa Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past, and the nearby boutique shops and cafes offer the perfect opportunity to relax and sample some of the local produce.

Overall, Akaroa offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for those traveling to New Zealand.

Arthur’s Pass National Park

Credit: ChristchurchNZ

This stunning park covers over 135,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged peaks. Visitors can explore the park by foot on a range of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging alpine treks. Some popular hikes include the Bealey Valley Track, the Dobson Nature Walk, and the Avalanche Peak Track.

The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, including native birds such as the kea, New Zealand falcon, and the fantail. Nature lovers can also go on a scenic drive along the alpine pass, which offers stunning views of the park’s rugged beauty.

If you are a hiker, birdwatcher, or simply seeking a peaceful escape into nature, there’s no doubt that you should take a day trip to Arthur’s Pass National Park!

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs is a quaint alpine village located just a 90-minute drive from Christchurch.

Renowned for its natural hot springs, Hanmer Springs has been popular for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation for over a century. Visitors to Hanmer Springs can soak in the warm waters of the open-air thermal pools, or indulge in a therapeutic spa treatment at one of the many spa facilities in the area.

The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding. In the winter, ski and snowboard enthusiasts can hit the slopes at one of the nearby ski resorts.

For those looking for a more relaxed pace, the town offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops, providing the perfect place to unwind.

Godley Head

Credit: ChristchurchNZ

Pack your water bottle, walking shoes and picnic and head to Godley Head. Start at the Godley Head Track at Taylor’s Mistake and weave through the hills, taking in the magnificent ocean views. Godley Head is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Learn about the history of this area as the headland is also a historic site, with several fortifications dating back to World War II, including gun emplacements and bunkers. These structures serve as a reminder of the region’s rich history and offer a unique opportunity to explore the area’s past.

Lyttleton and Quail Island

Credit: ChristchurchNZ
Credit: ChristchurchNZ

Lyttelton is a charming port town located just a short 20 minute drive from Christchurch. Spend the day exploring the town, taking in the views, and experiencing the local culture. After exploring Lyttleton, hop on a Black Cats Ferry and make your way to Quail Island.

Quail Island is known for its rich history and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors to Quail Island can explore the remains of a former quarantine station and learn about the island’s history as a sheep farm, as well as its more recent use as a holiday destination. The island is also a haven for wildlife. Keep a lookout for seabirds, seals, and penguins, which can be observed from the many walking trails that crisscross the island.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Christchurch

Make Tasman Holiday Parks – Christchurch your home base when exploring Christchurch and its surrounds. With its central location, excellent facilities and welcoming staff, you’ll feel instantly relaxed as you arrive to your accommodation after a day of exploring.

Top 5 Things To Do and See in Ohiwa

by tasmanholidayparks

Here are five of the best things to do in Ohiwa:

Go kayaking at Ohiwa Harbour

Credit: Tourism Bay of Plenty

Ohiwa Harbour is a tranquil body of water surrounded by stunning scenery and is the perfect place for kayaking. It offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and wildlife and the calm waters make it an excellent spot for kayaking (even for beginners).

You can rent kayaks from our reception at our Ohiwa Beach holiday park and explore the area at your own pace, taking in the breathtaking scenery and observing the diverse birdlife. Paddle around the small islands, stop for a picnic on a secluded beach or try your hand at fishing – the perfect way to spend a relaxing day in nature!

Chat to our friendly reception team about hiring a kayak for the day.

Hike in the Ohiwa Scenic Reserve

The Ohiwa Scenic Reserve is a lush coastal forest only 5 minutes from our holiday park and is perfect for any nature or hiking enthusiasts. It is known for its diverse and unique ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and estuaries and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including rare bird species, marine mammals, and reptiles. The reserve’s well-maintained trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and allow visitors to get up close and personal with nature.

With its diverse range of environments, from coastal sand dunes to dense forests, it truly makes for an unforgettable experience. Take a leisurely hike through the forest and enjoy the scenery, or tackle one of the more challenging trails for a true adventure.

Take a dolphin and whale-watching tour

Chat to our friendly staff at reception for more information on local tours.

Ohiwa is in a prime spot for dolphin and whale watching, and there are several tours available that will take you out on the water to spot these magnificent creatures. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, a dolphin and whale-watching tour is a must-do activity in Ohiwa.

Find out our recommended tours here

Visit the Ohiwa Oyster Farm

The Ohiwa Oyster Farm is a local favourite, and it’s the perfect place to sample some of the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste. Take a tour of the farm and learn about the oyster farming process, or simply sit back and enjoy the delicious seafood in the farm’s restaurant.

Fish right from Ohiwa Beach

Ohiwa Beach offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from surfcasting to rock fishing and even kayaking. It is a great spot for both novice and experienced fishermen alike, with the chance to catch a variety of species including snapper, kahawai, trevally, and kingfish.

The best time to fish at Ohiwa Beach is during the summer months when the water is warmer, and the fish are more active. However, it is also possible to catch fish during the winter months. With stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hills, Ohiwa Beach is not only a fantastic fishing spot but also a beautiful place to spend a day outdoors.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Ohiwa Beach

These 5 things to do in Ohiwa are merely just a taste of what this picturesque coastal town has to offer. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, you’ll find it all in Ohiwa.

For a comfortable and relaxing visit to Ohiwa Beach, stay at Tasman Holiday Parks. Our holiday park is ideally situated right on the sandy shores of Ohiwa Beach, offering spectacular views and easy access to all the best that this stunning location has to offer. We have a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and group size, including cozy cabins, spacious motels, and powered and unpowered camping sites. We also offer a variety of on-site facilities including a swimming pool, playground, and outdoor dining area, making it easy for you to spend your days having fun and creating memories.

Don’t wait, book your next adventure today at Tasman Holiday Parks – Ohiwa Beach.

5 of the best activities for nature lovers in the Bay of Plenty

by tasmanholidayparks

Have you considered a holiday in the beautiful Bay of Plenty? Here are 5 of the best nature activities to inspire your next getaway!

Nature lovers rejoice! The Bay of Plenty is the perfect spot to go for a nature-filled getaway in New Zealand. From local hikes, waterfalls, surfing, sightseeing, and more, there is plenty to keep you busy if you like to enjoy the outdoors on holiday.  

Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is one of the best ways to appreciate a new place and check out the local sights. In New Zealand, you will experience plenty of local wildlife and nature almost anywhere you go. Get out and about to make the most of what our beautiful country has to offer.

Here are 5 of the best activities for nature lovers in the Bay of Plenty!

1. Mauao Summit Walk

You’ve probably seen photos of the stunning view from Mauao before. This popular walk takes about 40 minutes and requires a good level of fitness given the steep climb up. Enjoy incredible views over Mount Maunganui and towards Waihi Beach – you’ll feel on top of the world here! Take a packed lunch and enjoy the 360 views once you reach the summit.

You can choose between two different tracks to reach the top of the mountain, or take the route around the base of the mountain for an easier stroll. If you’re walking in summertime, don’t forget to take plenty of water and sunscreen! The track isn’t paved and can be slippery on the way down, so a good pair of shoes is recommended too.

2. Surfing at Waihi Beach

Surf’s up at Waihi Beach, one of the safest and best spots in NZ.

Surfs up!

Waihi Beach is a great place to get some surfing practice in no matter your skill level. Bring your own surfboard or rent one at one of the local surf shops. If you’re a beginner, why not take a surfing lesson with Waihi Beach Surf School to improve your skills? You’ll be a pro in no time! They offer private, group and family lessons for everyone to enjoy.

Given it’s one of the safest and best places to surf and swim, Waihi Beach is very popular, and can get quite busy in summertime. Make sure you watch out for other surfers and swimmers when you’re in the water, and always follow the beach rules.

If surfing’s not your style, take a dip to refresh or sunbathe on the beautiful sandy beaches.

Stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach or Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven and you’ll be within walking distance to the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a beachside escape!

3. McLaren Falls

A short 10 minute drive from Tauranga, you’ll find the McLaren Falls Park.

You’ll definitely want to go chasing this waterfall!

McLaren Falls Park is a short 10 minute drive from Tauranga, offering 190-hectares of parkland alongside Lake McLaren. There’s plenty to do here, including fishing, kayaking, bush walks and concerts in the summertime, making it the perfect place to enjoy nature. Take a stroll down to the waterfall and keep an eye out for glow worms after dusk! There are plenty of great swimming holes and spots in the area too, which are a great place to stop in and cool down on a hot day.

If you’re staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach, you’ll be only 30 minutes away from the park. You will also be within an easy drive to plenty of other great waterfalls and water holes in the area!

4. Papamoa Hill Regional Park

An ideal spot for avid hikers, the Papamoa Hills Regional Park offers several trails to enjoy and get your heart rate up. The main track is over 200 metres above sea level, offering incredible views across the coastline. You can also choose from several other trails that weave around the park. There’s no such thing as a wrong turn in this stunning park!

Over 50,000 native plants have recently been planted, and you can also spot seven pā sites in the hills – this is where Papamoa’s original Māori inhabitants lived. It’s the perfect mix of nature and cultural heritage to explore and appreciate during your stay in the Bay of Plenty.

5. Redwoods Forest Walk

A little further afield, but well worth the drive, is the Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua. Surround yourself by 75-metre-tall redwoods as you walk along the suspended pathway, learning the history of the 120-year-old trees and how they came to be planted in New Zealand.

The 28 suspension bridges range between 9-20 meters off the ground, allowing you to experience these magnificent trees at varying heights.

The walk takes about 40 minutes and can be done during the daytime or at nighttime with the trees illuminated by lights. This is a great unique family friendly activity to add to your holiday bucketlist!

Rotorua is about an hour’s drive from Tauranga, and offers plenty of fun nature and adrenalin activities to enjoy.

Where to stay?

The Bay of Plenty has lots to explore for the whole family.

If you’re heading to Papamoa Beach, check out Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach for beachfront camping, gorgeous villas, and great facilities. Or if you’re heading up to Waihi Beach, Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach and Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven are the ideal spots to stay for your next getaway. Book your stay now!

What to Pack for a New Zealand Holiday

by tasmanholidayparks

New Zealand Holiday Essentials

New Zealand is a wonderful country to visit no matter the season. It’s the country that has it all from snow-capped mountains to beautiful beaches, from urban cities to majestic fjords, it truly is one of the most scenic places on this planet. The good news is we can now start travelling to NZ from Australia with New Zealand’s border opening. With so much to do and the changing seasons, it can be challenging to put together a packing list. Below is a list of essentials for the various seasons to make it a little easier.

New Zealand holiday in summer

New Zealand summer is from December to February. The summer time is balmy and pleasant with daytime temperatures ranging between 21°C to 32°C. It’s relatively dry during summer so leave the raincoats and umbrellas at home.

In summer, enjoy the many stunning beaches New Zealand has to offer. Visit the laidback coastal town of Papamoa Beach or the safest surf break in New Zealand at Waihi Beach. There are many places to go and enjoy the great outdoors on hiking and cycling trails or enjoy the city life in New Zealand’s urban cities.

New Zealand summer is balmy and pleasant, perfect for surfing, cycling and more!

What to pack for a New Zealand Holiday in summer

  • Be sun safe: Make sure you pack a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing to cover your shoulders when out and about. The UV can be quite high during summer so slip, slop and slap.
  • Comfortable summer clothing: New Zealand has plenty of hiking and cycling trails, so make sure you bring a range of comfortable summer clothing. Pack t-shirts, shorts and light long pants for outdoor activities.
  • Walking shoes and socks: If you plan on exploring New Zealand’s wilderness (which we highly recommend) make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes and socks.
  • Swimwear and towel: New Zealand has many places to enjoy a cool dip. From beautiful beaches, lakes, and rivers, be sure to pack your swimwear to enjoy.
  • Sandals and thongs: For lazy days around the beach or caravan park, pack some lightweight and comfortable shoes.
  • Going out clothes: For the long lunches and nights out, make sure you pack a nice going out outfit and shoes.

New Zealand holiday in Autumn

Autumn in New Zealand is from March through to May. It’s a great time to travel because you can still enjoy the sunshine without the crowds. Temperatures range from 7°C to 21°C.

Make the most of the warmer weather before winter arrives. Enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves against a backdrop of blue skies. Venture off on one of the many hiking tracks, take a dip in the ocean, explore the cities, or go fishing.   

Enjoy beautiful autumn leaves from March through to May.

Milford Sound, South Island

What to pack for a New Zealand holiday in autumn

  • Wind and rain resistant coat: Autumn inNew Zealand can be a littlechilly and wet at times. Pack a wind and rain resistant coat so you’re prepared for all kinds of weather.
  • Be sun safe: The sun is still strong in Autumn so make sure you pack a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing to cover your shoulders when out and about.
  • Comfortable clothing for layering: New Zealand can get a little chilly at times during Autumn. Pack lightweight clothing that you can layer when exploring the great outdoors.
  • Walking shoes and socks: It occasionally rains during autumn so pack walking shoes with good grip. Sometimes walking paths can be a little slippery after a good drenching.  
  • Swimwear and towel: The water is still warm enough to enjoy a quick dip. Pack your swimwear and a towel.
  • Going out clothes: For nights on the town pack warmer clothing as it gets a little chilly. Pack nice pants, tops, shoes, and jackets to enjoy New Zealand’s nightlife.

New Zealand holiday in winter

Winter in New Zealand is from June through to August. It snows in parts of the country and rains more regularly than in the warmer months. The temperature ranges from 1.5°C to 15.5°C and plumates below 0°C in the mountain regions.

Winter is the perfect time to hit the ski slopes. Spend your days skiing, snowboarding or hiking and finish the day with a nice hot spa and sauna. Spend your nights cozy by the fire with a mulled wine and good food.

What to pack for a New Zealand holiday in winter

Enjoy skiing and snow with a New Zealand winter escape.

  • Ski gear: When travelling to this winter wonderland you’re going to need snow gear. If you don’t have your own there are plenty of places to hire your gear from.  
  • Thermal clothing: Thermal clothing is great to wear under your clothes to provide that extra warmth on those really cold days. 
  • Warm coat: New Zealand can get quite cold during winter. Pack a nice everyday coat to keep you warm on your outdoor ventures. Something that is wind and rain proof is ideal.
  • Beanie, scarf and gloves: For those extra cold days rug up with the winter essentials.
  • Swimwear: New Zealand has some amazing hot springs, spas and saunas to warm yourself on those cold winter days.
  • Walking shoes and socks: Make sure they have good grip because walking tracks can be a little slippery with ice and rain.
  • Going out clothes: The nights are cold in winter so pack nice going pants, jeans, long sleeve tops and knits as well as a warm coat.

New Zealand holiday in spring

Spring in New Zealand is from September through to November. The temperature ranges from 4.5°C to 18°C. The days are sunny, the mornings are crisp and there are few showers here and there.

The ski season runs until late September, so you still have time to visit the snowfields. Spring is a great time to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or hiking without the crowds that winter and summer have.

New Zealand spring brings crisp mornings and sunny days.

What to pack for a New Zealand holiday in spring

  • Ski gear: The snow season finishes at the end of September so there is still time to hit the slopes. If you don’t have your own there are plenty of places to hire your gear from. 
  • Wind and rain resistant coat: Spring is still a little chilly so pack a wind and rain resistant coat.
  • Be sun safe: Pack a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing to cover your shoulders when out and about.
  • Comfortable clothing for layering: Pack lightweight clothing and thermals so you can layer on those cooler days.
  • Walking shoes and socks: Pack walking shoes with good grip. Sometimes walking paths can be a little slippery in wet and icy conditions. 
  • Swimwear and towel: Bring your swimwear for hot tubs, spas and saunas.
  • Going out clothes: Pack nice pants, tops, knits, light scarves, shoes, and jackets to enjoy New Zealand’s nightlife. 

Tasman Holiday Parks, the Largest Trans-Tasman Holiday Park Group is Poised for Expansion

by tasmanholidayparks

Tasman Holiday Parks has announced the creation of the leading trans-Tasman
holiday park group after bedding down a series of acquisitions and developments
totalling more than $250 million over the past 18 months.

Tasman Holiday Parks, backed by Tasman Capital, a leading private equity group, is setting its sights on becoming a market leader in the sector. The fast-moving group has quickly capitalised on emerging opportunities in the holiday park sector in Australia and New Zealand as travel restrictions begin to ease in a post-COVID environment.

The emerging holiday park powerhouse, led by industry veteran Nikki Milne and a management team with more than 75 years’ combined sector experience, currently has a portfolio of 21 holiday parks following an acquisition spree that has consolidated quality assets in iconic destinations under the new Tasman Holiday Parks banner.

A recent $300 million capital raise has armed Tasman Holiday Parks with a warchest that will allow the group to double its asset base over the next two years. The pace of acquisitions since early 2020 has positioned Tasman Holiday Parks as the fastest growing owner, developer, and operator of holiday parks in Australia and New Zealand.

Among the latest acquisitions, is Christchurch TOP10 Holiday Park. The significant 277-site asset brings the total number of sites owned by Tasman Holiday Parks to more than 3,000, comprising cabins, caravan & camping sites, and short-term holiday sites.

The group now owns and operates 16 holiday parks in Australia and five in New Zealand and employs more than 300 staff across its operations. Tasman Holiday Parks CEO Nikki Milne says the group has targeted the launch of the consolidated consumer platform, tasmanholidayparks.com to catch the new wave of growth and increasing demand across domestic drive markets as borders reopen.

“We believe a desire for a more timeless touring and travel experience was returning prior to COVID, and the pandemic has only just accelerated this,” said Ms Milne.

“The growing popularity of an iconic cabin, caravan and camping holiday is an emerging mega-trend, and we are positioning ourselves to capture this return to authentic travel experiences with quality assets in iconic destinations across Australia and New Zealand.”

Tasman Holiday Parks is expecting a surge of travel demand as borders reopen across Australia and New Zealand throughout 2022 and beyond.

“While we are anticipating a strengthening of our domestic travel markets, we believe this will translate to a robust trans-Tasman demand for all of our holiday parks as holiday makers make a comeback,” said Ms Milne.

Tasman Holiday Parks has focused its acquisition strategy on quality independent holiday parks, with strong development upside in strategic locations.

Tasman Holiday Parks has recently undertaken a capital raise to restock its war chest with over $300 million available to grow its network and deliver a multi-milliondollar redevelopment program of its iconic holiday assets across Australia & New Zealand.


“We believe in delivering wonderful guest experiences and will focus investment to ensure we have the highest quality parks to delight our customers now and into the future,” said Ms Milne.


Tasman Holiday Parks currently has a deep pipeline of projects and acquisitions to double the size of the business over the coming 24 months. The group’s current development pipeline has the capacity to add an additional 500 sites to its existing portfolio.

Stuart Lamont CEO of the Caravan Industry Association of Australia said the investment into the sector was timely and acknowledged the commitment to quality from Tasman Holiday Parks.


“Holiday Parks are the backbone of the great Australian touring holiday and essential to the social fabric of our communities. Quality, well-funded corporate groups with a strong commitment to re-investment are essential to the delivery of a leading guest
experience,” said Mr Lamont.

“We are excited to support and welcome Tasman Holiday Parks as an active member of the caravanning and camping market and an emerging leader in the trans-Tasman market.”


Tasman Holiday Parks are the fastest-growing owner, developer & operator of holiday parks across Australia and New Zealand. With more than 3,000 sites under management across 21 iconic locations, Tasman Holiday Parks welcomes more than 250,000 guests each year.