New Zealand Leaf-peeping Spots

On this page we have put together New Zealand’s top leaf-peeping areas, ranging from gardens and cities to the rolling countryside in both the North Island and the South Island.

Explore a region at a time or combine several for a whole road trip! If you’re embarking on a multi-day leaf-peeping trip, you’ll want to stay in style. Farm stays are a great choice for leaf-peeping accommodation and so are backpacker hostels in rural, secluded spots or little B&Bs on roads lined with autumn trees!

South Island leaf-peeping hot-spots

1. Central Otago is known for its stunning autumn colours. Hit the Otago Central Rail Trail!
2. The Mackenzie Country, especially around Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, is a prime location. Just imagine the reds and yellows set off against the stunning blues of the lakes and white peaks of the mountains beyond!
3. Get your camera out in the Southern Lakes region. The shoreline of Lake Wanaka is dotted with yellow poplars and Arrowtown is a hot-spot for rich, dense colours.
4. Marlborough’s vineyard scenery takes on a whole different look in autumn. Combine leaf-peeping with wine sampling!
5. The Garden City of Christchurch had buildings damaged in the February earthquake but its trees are still stunning and colourful as ever. Or why not book a hot air balloon ride over the Canterbury Plains?

North Island leaf-peeping hot-spots

1. The world-renowned Hamilton Gardens offer a great spot for city leaf-peeping.
2. Combine leaf-peeping with a wine cycle tour in Wairarapa.
3. Go for a long walk in Gisborne’s Eastwood Hill National Arboretum of New Zealand and take pictures to your heart’s content.
4. In Taranaki, combine catching an event at New Plymouth’s Brooklands Bowl with a long stroll through Pukekura Park.
5. Wander the Palmerston North Botanical Garden and capture autumn leaves along the way.