What to Pack for an Epic Winter Trip in New Zealand
Winter in New Zealand? Pure magic. Think snow-dusted peaks, steamy hot springs, icy blue lakes, and mountains made for carving up the slopes. Whether you’re chasing powder down south or road-tripping through geothermal wonders up north, winter in Aotearoa hits different.
But let’s be real - packing for it is a bit trickier than tossing in togs and a towel, like summer. With weather that can serve up four seasons in one day, you’ll want to stay warm, dry and ready for anything - without dragging around your entire wardrobe.
So we’ve teamed up with our legendary Kiwi Experience driver guides to pull together the ultimate winter packing list. Rain or shine, you’ll be sorted.
Tips from our Kiwi Experience Driver Legends
“Master the art of layering. Merino next to skin, a fleece or hoodie over that, and a solid puffer or rain jacket on top. Sorted.” – [Tawh], Driver Guide for Kiwi Experience,
Tip 1: Layer up like a local
If there’s one golden rule for winter travel in NZ: layers are your best mate. Frosty mornings turn into sunny afternoons faster than you can say "flat white."
Start with a merino base layer - breathable and made for NZ’s wild conditions. You’ll find it in outdoor stores or even most malls if you prefer to pick it up here.
Add a mid-layer (fleece or hoodie) and finish strong with a puffer or waterproof jacket. Lightweight, warm, and packable - it’s the winter travel trifecta.
Tip 2: Hitting the slopes?
Planning to ski or board at Mount Hutt, Cardrona or The Remarkables? You've got two options:
- Bring your own gear if you’re seasoned.
- Hire locally if you’re travelling light (most of our travellers do). NZ ski fields offer top-quality rental gear - no stress, no bulk, no worries
Tip 3: Be prepared for sun
Even in winter, New Zealand has some of the highest UV levels in the world. Be prepared and don’t forget to be prepared. Sunburn and windburn are a harsh combo - stay protected out there.
Pack:
- Sunscreen (SPF 50)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Lip balm with SPF
- A hat for sunny hikes or snow days
Our winter essentials checklist
Clothing:
- Merino or thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Fleece/hoodie/mid-layer
- Warm, waterproof and windproof jacket or puffer
- Leggings or sweatpants
- Hiking pants
- Woollen socks
- Togs for hot pools
- Beanie
- Scarf or neck buff
- Gloves
Footwear:
- Waterproof hiking shoes or boots
- Jandals (for hostel showers or hot pools)
Accessories & Extras:
- Sunglasses (with UV protection)
- Sunscreen & lip balm
- Reusable water bottle
- Daypack with zip compartments)
- Travel towel (quick-dry is best)
