While winter doesn’t officially begin until December 22nd, most of us are already feeling the chillier weather. This season, give winter the cold shoulder and escape on a warm winter vacation. Instead of your typical all-inclusive sunspot resort, this year, why not head to New Zealand! Here are five reasons to make New Zealand your warm winter vacation destination this year.
#1 Make *precious* memories

Transport yourself to Middle Earth with a tour of the Lord of the Rings movie set on North Island, New Zealand. Explore iconic Shire locations such as the hobbit-holes. Walk through the movie set and admire the lush hillsides and charming gardens. Finish your tour with a stop at the Green Dragon Inn, and grab a drink. We’ve got four more, but do you really need another reason to make New Zealand your warm winter vacation destination?
#2 Soar above rocky peaks

Test your nerves with a skydiving experience in Queenstown, South Island. Jump from a plane at 15,000 feet above ground, and take in breathtaking views. Get a bird’s eye view of the mountainous landscape and deep blue water.
#3 Beach, please!

Hoping to get a few beach days on your warm winter vacation? New Zealand’s got beach for miles (and miles, and miles, and miles). Stroll along the golden sands of Ninety-Mile Beach on North Island. Admire the picturesque surroundings, and (if you’re lucky) catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales playing in the ocean.
#4 Explosive fun

Journey to Wai-O-Tapu for some very warm winter vacation fun. Observe the volcanic phenomena, massive craters, and active geyser at this geothermal site. See the vibrantly colored pools of water as you walk along the pathways.
#5 Track n’ field

Retrace the steps of early explorers along the Milford Track in the Fiordland National Park, South Island. The track stretches to over 50,000 meters and boasts of stunning views of rainforests, waterfalls, and mountains. If hiking isn’t your thing, opt for a relaxing cruise through the Fiordland National Park instead. Gaze up at the towering fiord and watch New Zealand fur seals basking in the sun.
So, ready to book tickets? Say TTYL to winter and hop on a plane to New Zealand.