The quietest time to visit Queenstown, the summertime crowds dwindle as the days grow shorter. Meanwhile, forests and gardens all over the region are ablaze in red, orange, and gold, making this one of the most beautiful times to explore the rolling countryside.

Photographers won’t want to miss the intense foliage and the festive energy of the annual Arrowtown Autumn Festival. There are street performers, colorful parades, and the buzz of markets selling local foods and handicrafts.

Don’t miss the annual grape harvest, which typically starts the last week of April. Sample the region’s award-winning pinot noir and tour the tousled vine fields where workers pick the best of the season.

The cooler weather calls for riverside walks—ideally, with a hot chocolate in hand. Down at Queenstown’s Main Town Pier, watch the high-powered Big Yellow jet boats depart in bubbling white streams at the top of the hour. You can even take your own 360-degree spin with the family.

Winter brings with it the arrival of the long-awaited ski season in Queenstown. There’s plenty to savor: blue skies, crisp temperatures, and world-class slopes. And you’re in luck, because winter happens to be the cheapest time to visit Queenstown. Hotels, rental cars, and outdoor excursions are at their lowest prices of the year.

Don’t be deceived by the warmer weather in Central Queenstown. Gear up with a thick winter jacket when you head south for the mountain slopes—communities in Coronet Peak’s shadow can feel colder during the daytime.

Ever imagined skiing under the stars with the slopes illuminated by powerful spotlights? Give it a try at Coronet Peak, the only place in New Zealand that offers this unique activity. Bonus: it’s the perfect chance to clink glasses and rub shoulders with the festive après-ski crowd.

Soak away winter’s frost at natural hot pools or in luxurious hot tubs at the hotels and spas. You might even want to make it a post-dinner ritual.

Springtime is defined by three words: Do. It. All. The alpine peaks stay ski-friendly until October, while the hiking trails through the lush valleys are lined with wildflowers. The days are longer and the temperatures are warmer, but passing clouds can quickly turn sunny days into spring showers. Expect a more chill vibe, as you’re dodging peak summer crowds.

Pack plenty of layers, as the weather’s always changing. Bring along a warm jacket for when you’re up in the hills, and something light and breezy for when you’re in the valleys and downtown.

This is a world-class wine region, so stop by Gibbston Valley for the full wine country experience. Sample an award-winning Pinot Noir al fresco amid vibrant wildflowers and warm sunshine.

Love a challenge? Hike up the hour-long Tiki Trail to Bob’s Peak, where stands of shady pine trees open up to sprawling views of Lake Wakatipu and the rest of Queenstown. Arrive at the Skyline Gondola lookout point and take the one-way ride down, or opt for a fast track down the biking trails at nearby Queenstown Bike Park.