When is the best time to visit South Island, New Zealand ? Summer or Winter?

Spring is the best time to visit NZ, December is in the height of summer and there is obviously less snow around, however, places like the homer tunnel en route to Milford Sound has snow that you can drive right up to most of the year round,

If you're only interested in picture perfect snow capped mountains summer is best! If you're interested in skiing winter. Still looks like this in mid summer (January) ---> http://newzealandstockphoto.photoshelter.com/gallery-image/Aoraki-Mt-Cook-New-Zealand-Images/G0000LVxjDiDGrYQ/I0000sGAdDQx9szg - love that turquoise glacial water! And the fiords like this ---> http://ciciliashinta.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/12-bagus.jpg (but usually raining) But it can still be pleasantly warm in the valleys :)

Steve I don't know when you where you went skiing in November in New Zealand as all the ski fields usually close in the early weeks of October. Erlangga if you want to see snow (that is easily accessible) I would advise to go before the end of October. (I am from the South Island by the way). Sometimes you will find it does actually snow in NZ in the summer on the rare occasion! The coldest winter months are June July August then it begins to warm up until December. January and February are your best bet for more settled summer weather.

Hi, If you would like to have snow it would be better if you travel somewhere about November end. I remember visiting the south islands during this time as I love skiing. I got free ski racks and equipment with my rental with Hertz. So my choice, would be anytime between October and November end.

Yes there is snow on the mountain peaks in summer, at least there was the last time I was in the South Island although that was November rather than December. December is leading into summer so you will find the weather to be both warmer and sunnier. Yes it is a good time to visit New Zealand although the other parts of the year also have their attractions.