3 breathtaking nature spots in New Zealand to visit this autumn

While Lake Tekapo is always a true beaut, it’s during the autumn season that it becomes a picturesque scene that rivals no other. Trees turn a golden hue – a stark contrast to the bright turquoise waters. The lake itself might be the main draw, but the entire Mackenzie Country is a stunning nature retreat from March to May.

If you’re driving back towards Christchurch after exploring Mackenzie Country, make a detour to Kings Truffles in North Canterbury for an afternoon of truffle foraging. It’s just under an hour’s drive from the city where you’ll be whiling away your afternoon at one of the largest truffle-growing operations in New Zealand, with a specially-trained dog by your side. Since their noses are perfectly attuned to the earthy scent of fresh truffles, these truffle-hunting hounds will be sniffing out the freshest truffles for you to savour. 

It’s worth spending a night or two at Greystone PurePod too, since it’s situated high above the picturesque setting of award-winning organic Greystone Winery. As New Zealand’s first net-zero carbon organic winery, this luxe retreat is one you’ll remember – it comes fitted with glass-walled eco-cabins. Besides star-gazing from the comfort of your bed and wine tasting sessions, you can also look forward to their famous four-course long lunch (from NZD$105 per person) that celebrates local fresh produce like Clevedon oysters and Canterbury Wash Creek organic lamb. 

No matter if it’s your very first trip or you’ve lost count of the number of times you’ve stepped foot in New Zealand, head down to Arrowtown – it’s just an easy 20-minute drive from Queenstown Airport. This historic gold mining town might be quaint, but it’s a picture-perfect settlement that first came about during the Otago gold rush of the 1860s. During autumn months, the heritage main street has a colourful backdrop of gold and red-tinted trees. The foliage here is spectacular, and it’s no surprise that Arrowtown has its very own autumn festival in April. 

Make sure to also join the nearby Forage and Feast Wanaka full-day food adventure, that’ll bring you to local producers and guided trail walks with foragers. Save your stomach: from NZD$399 per person, it includes everything from morning tea to a two-course lunch with wine. There’s no better way to learn about fresh produce than foraging for your own food – this itinerary even lets you enjoy it at a local’s home.

New Zealand’s landscape changes drastically from North to South, and Waipoua Forest is smack bang in the rugged forests of Northland. At evergreen Waipoua Forest, the terrain is filled with towering kauri trees – New Zealand’s largest tree. It’s best to visit this rainforest during autumn if you’re going for hikes, since it’s pleasantly cool with long sunny days. Pop by nearby winery The Landing for a wine tasting tour, bringing you through rolling vineyards and the multi-layered notes of award-winning wines. It’s a stunning spot, that’s for sure, overlooking lush westlands with a glimpse of the blue sea.

Since you’re already in the Northland area, there’s also ample time to hit up Kerikeri. Many flock to this heritage gem for good reason. Here, New Zealand’s natural beauty shines. It’s the perfect nature spot to go chasing waterfalls, with cascading falls surrounded by vibrant greenery. 

For those still pondering over the best travel destination for their next holiday, New Zealand is an obvious winner. It’s filled with breathtaking nature spots, especially during the off-peak autumn season when the vibrant hues of yellow, red, and orange foliage make an appearance. It’s also a must-go destination for foodie travellers. After all, it’s during the autumn season when the Maori would harvest their crops or traipse through the forest to find fresh produce. Taste some of New Zealand’s best culinary fare at Auckland and Wellington’s experiential kitchens. Take vegetarian seasonal restaurant Forest or waste-conscious, pay-as-you-feel Everybody Eats – these novel concepts all feature the best of New Zealand’s local produce. 

No matter if you’re keen on visiting Lake Tekapo or Arrowtown, flights start from just $1,364 when you fly with Air New Zealand from Singapore. And with over 20 domestic connections on the award-winning airline’s network, it’s more than convenient to explore the country’s many nature spots.

Discover more nature spots and plan your New Zealand itinerary here.