Upon arrival at the check-in point, we were first weighed, then watched a video explaining the precautions (available in simplified Chinese). We changed into wool socks and shoes. Perhaps because it's summer, they only provided us with waterproof jackets, no pants, but gloves and small backpacks were given. After gearing up, we boarded a shuttle bus to the helipad. The flight took about 5 minutes to reach the glacier. Because the hike was mostly uphill, it wasn't very cold. With frequent stops and sightseeing and taking photos, there wasn't much time to eat or drink. I recommend eating some snacks beforehand and making sure to use the restroom! When we reached a higher point, the guide suggested we try drinking the glacier water, which tasted like ice water with no strange smell. Our guide, Sabrina, was a very talkative woman. Thank you for giving us a wonderful glacier hiking experience!
Super fun! I was scared at first, but the view after jumping was absolutely stunning. The instructor was also great and provided a lot of emotional support. I'm so glad the weather was perfect that day so I could go skydiving as planned. If you're ever in Queenstown, you absolutely must try it! It's on my bucket list!
Milford Sound experiences rain for most of the year, so choosing a day with light or even heavy rain will make the scenery and waterfalls even more breathtaking. The fjords soar into the clouds, allowing you to truly experience the feeling of water cascading down from a great height. Be aware that strong winds and high waves can occur as you approach the Tasman Sea, so remember to bring plenty of warm clothing and a hat, as you might get completely soaked and unable to stand.
The helicopter tour offered a spectacular view, and the blue ice caves on the glacier were stunning. Our guide, Hunter, was incredibly professional and humorous, leading us through the ice caves with complete confidence. The equipment provided was also excellent. Although the price was a bit high, it's a highly recommended experience.
The helicopter tour alone is excellent value, and the glacier hike takes almost 2 hours in total, offering a wealth of information about glaciers! Highly recommended!
Anonymous User
Friend
south island Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit
Data source:Meteostat Update date:2025-09
south island year round climate
Spring (March–May): Average 8.1–13.7°C, cool and rainy with occasional warm sunshine. Common activities: Hiking, flower viewing (e.g., some hardy flowers). Recommended clothing: Waterproof jacket, warm layers, comfortable hiking boots.
Summer (June–August): Average 5.9–6.3°C, cold and damp with high rainfall, especially in July. Common activities: Indoor activities, museum visits, onsen experiences. Recommended clothing: Warm waterproof jacket, sweaters, long pants, waterproof shoes.
Autumn (September–November): Average 9.0–13.0°C, gradually warming with less rainfall. Common activities: Hiking, exploring nature. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long pants, comfortable shoes.
Winter (December–February): Average 15.2–16.4°C, mild with moderate rainfall. Common activities: Outdoor activities, beach walks (weather permitting). Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long pants, comfortable shoes.
south island climatological average
Annual average temperature: approx. 10.9°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 801 mm / Summer humidity: 60%–70% / Rainiest month: July
south island monthly average temperature and precipitation
Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
16.4°C
42
February
15.6°C
71.7
March
13.7°C
66.1
April
11.2°C
49
May
8.1°C
45.1
June
6.1°C
54.1
July
5.9°C
142.3
August
6.3°C
60.8
September
9°C
55
October
10.6°C
79.1
November
13°C
73.5
December
15.2°C
63.1
south island weather for the next seven days
2/21
Saturday
Sunny
17.8°C/2.7°C
2/22
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
18.7°C/3.4°C
2/23
Monday
Sunny
21.1°C/4.4°C
2/24
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
12.8°C/6°C
2/25
Wednesday
Partly Cloudy
18°C/3.4°C
2/26
Thursday
Patchy rain nearby
18.1°C/8.4°C
2/27
Friday
Moderate rain
6.1°C/4.9°C
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