Hi I was just wonding if any one knows when is the best time of year to do the Grand Explorer? because I really want to see both Islands on the same trip.

Depends on what activites you wish to partake in. Do you want to travel light or w/ winter clothing? Summer would be warmest in mid-late Jan and winter is July.

- Vic

Probably in summer

Yeah, Summer for sure. But Summer is just over, getting cold here now. Good thing in NZ is New Years is over Summer :]

I'd say December-March is the best time, if you like hot weather.

Hi Kami,

I have spoken with two Tour Managers from Contiki, and both have said that January to March is the best time.

I am going on the Grand Explorer starting February 21, 2010, starting in Auckland.

I have done the Southern Island with Contiki 2 years ago, at the end of winter, and am really looking forward to doing the North and South at the end of Summer.

You won't regret taking the tour. It is awesome at any time of the year.

Rach.

I have also been told to go to New Zealand in Summer by one my friends i met on Contiki who is from Auckland. and Rach i am thinking of going to New Zealand around the same time as you..but not sure what tour yet.

I would say December and January which is the summer.
I went once on a School Trip back in 1990 as a 12 Year Old and Went again but this time with Contiki in 1998/99 as a 20 something.