Turn down the heat: Our guide to a winter down under

Auckland, New Zealand: A misty city with cultural charm

Misty mornings? Check. Stylish umbrellas and bustling cafés? Double check. Auckland thrives in winter with mist-wrapped mornings and vibrant cultural energy. The city’s winter is more mild than wild, with temperatures typically between 12°C and 16°C. While it’s a bit wetter than usual, that’s just an excuse to dive into the local scene.

Winter kicks off with the Matariki Festival (19 – 22 June), a beautiful celebration of the Māori New Year full of culture, storytelling, and lights. If you’re an art lover, the Auckland Art Gallery is your warm escape, showcasing hot new exhibits. The New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) also rolls into town from 31 July – 31 August, making movie nights even more epic. When the clouds part, take advantage of Auckland’s beaches or head out on a scenic hike – you’ll likely have the trails all to yourself.

Where to stay: Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences offers chic, comfortable lodging in the heart of this dynamic city.

Melbourne, Australia: Cosy cafés, sports and more

Melbourne may cool down in winter, with temps around 14°C by day and 6°C at night, but the energy heats up. This is when the city’s theatre scene is buzzing, cafés are extra cosy, and laneways feel even more magical. Whether you’re sipping a flat white in a tucked-away café or catching a show, there’s always something to do.

Rug up and open your mind in the moonlight at RISING in June – an outdoor arts festival featuring works from hundreds of international artists. Love sports? Grab a scarf and cheer on your team at an AFL game – it’s basically a Melbourne rite of passage. Or take a lazy stroll by the Yarra River, duck into boutiques, or jump into winter-only food and wine festivals. All this and more is why Melbourne truly is Australia's most magical winter city. After a visit, you might just find that winter is your new favourite season.

Where to stay: Have your pick between three amazing stays. Avani Melbourne Jazz Corner Residences is in the city’s cultural hub, close to great music and art. Avani Melbourne Central Residences is at the heart of it all, with modern design and easy access to shopping and dining. Avani Melbourne Box Hill Residences offers a home away from home just outside the city.

Queenstown, New Zealand: Snow-capped mountains and paragliding

Queenstown in winter has it all – epic paragliding, sick slopes, chilled lake cruises and cosy vibes by the water. Whether you’re after thrills or just want to kick back, it’s the place to be. Daytime temperatures hover around 5 to 8°C, with nights dipping to -2°C. Snow-capped mountains, clear skies, and a fresh chill in the air set the stage for incredible outdoor adventures.

Hit the slopes at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables for skiing or snowboarding. For a rush of adrenaline, try paragliding from Coronet Peak, launching from 1,677 metres and soaring over snow-covered valleys. Afterward, warm up with a hot chocolate by Lake Wakatipu or explore Queenstown’s vibrant après-ski scene.

Adelaide, Australia: Culture and comfort in the cool

Next stop, Adelaide, where winter is the city’s best-kept secret. The cool season transforms the streets into a vibrant playground filled with cultural treasures and culinary delights. With daytime temps floating between 14°C and 16°C, everything feels cool and cosy. The city truly comes alive, with festivals, performances, and plenty to explore while keeping things comfortably chill.

It’s the perfect time to discover Adelaide’s wine bars, quirky laneways, and world-class museums without breaking a sweat. For a bit of adventure, you can even go truffle hunting in the nearby hills. When the evening hits, unwind with a drink at one of the city’s lively pubs or take a bar-hopping tour through the East End. Outside the city, the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale offer bold red wines, crackling fireplaces and great food. Whether you’re feasting on hearty winter fare or sipping rich shiraz, Adelaide’s winter is truly a vibe.

Where to stay: Avani Adelaide Residences places you right where the action is, with stylish apartments that serve as your perfect winter base.