Fall, or autumn, begins showing its beautiful face around the beginning of April. The trees don bright new suits of vibrant reds, yellows and browns. The sun is still warm, yet the evenings are cooling. Sunrises become more spectacular due to the morning mists which cloak the valleys and waterways.
New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscape. Luxury and boutique lodges have been carefully positioned to capture dramatic vistas and parade them in their full glory for visiting guests. At no time of year is this more evident than in April and May.
Log fire season also begins towards the end of April. If you’re staying at a lodge, chances are the pre-dinner drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be moving off the patio and into the lounge, where the fire is roaring, and where new acquaintances are made as guests get to meet each other and share their backgrounds, their journeys and their experiences. New Zealand wines are offered and enjoyed, including Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noirs from Central Otago, Martinborough and Canterbury, and Syrah, Bordeaux-style reds and Chardonnay from Hawke’s Bay. Accompanying the wines, expect to enjoy some gourmet aperitifs. New Zealanders are proud of their wine and cuisine which, combined with the magnificent views and generous hospitality, exemplify the NZ lodge experience.
All of the activities for which New Zealand is renowned are still able to be enjoyed through April and May, with the exception of swimming unless you’re a brave soul from cooler climes. In the central North Island region, autumn visitors enjoy exploring the many geothermal parks, hiking on river, lake and mountain trails, including many options at the world heritage Tongariro National Park, fly fishing and boat fishing, lake and river cruises, visits to the thermal spa, white water rafting, jet boating and, for the more adventurous, sky diving and bungy jumping.
One of the other benefits of touring New Zealand in the fall is that accommodation bookings don’t need to be made in advance, which means you enjoy more flexibility in your travel plans. This is because the peak tourist season ends at the beginning of April. Daytime temperatures are warm (generally 60-70 degree Fahrenheit, 15-20 degrees Celsius), autumn colours are magnificent and all of the attractions and activities you want to enjoy are less crowded which means a more relaxing journey through our beautiful land.
The Lodge – Tauhara Sunrise. With 180 degree views over Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, Tauhara Sunrise offers luxury yet casual NZ lodge accommodation that’s perfect for a New Zealand honeymoon or for anyone seeking luxury, boutique accommodation in New Zealand. Complimentary pre-dinner drinks & hors d’oeuvres provide an opportunity for guests to get to know each other and share stories at the end of each day. Guests may help themselves to complimentary beers, wines and soft drinks at any time, and Rob takes great joy in selecting music to suit a variety of tastes from his comprehensive collection.