The Good:

• Longest daylight hours (sunrise 6am, sunset 9:30pm)
• Warmest conditions for kayaking and overnight cruises
• All activities operational including diving
• Best road conditions for self-driving
• Holiday atmosphere with international visitors

The Bad:

• Peak visitor numbers (book 2-3 weeks ahead)
• Higher accommodation prices
• Parking challenges at peak times
• Sandflies most active

The Good:

• Stunning autumn colors along Milford Road
• Reduced crowds after March
• Stable weather patterns
• Excellent visibility for scenic flights
• Migrating whales possible

The Bad:

• Shorter days from April
• Water temperature dropping for swimming/kayaking
• Some seasonal activities ending

The Good:

• Dramatic snow-capped peaks
• Clearest days of the year
• Lowest visitor numbers
• Best wildlife viewing (seals and penguins active)
• Unique winter light for photography
• Significant off-season discounts

The Bad:

• Road closures possible (avalanche management)
• Some activities weather-dependent
• Chains required for vehicles
• Limited daylight (sunrise 8am, sunset 5:30pm)

The Good:

• Waterfalls at peak flow from snowmelt
• Fiordland crested penguins breeding season
• Wildflowers blooming
• Increasing daylight hours
• Moderate visitor numbers

The Bad:

• Most rainfall of the year
• Weather highly unpredictable
• Some spring snow events possible