Mataura, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Mataura, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Mataura, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mataura, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Mataura, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mataura, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mataura, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Mataura, New Zealand by month

January

January is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Mataura during February, you may notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you find the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

Traveling to Mataura in March, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

In April, Mataura is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mataura, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region is cold and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost sometimes. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Mataura during June, you are likely to find that it can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Mataura in July, you will notice that it can be very chilly and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Mataura is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Mataura can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Mataura is crisp and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

In November, Mataura is cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mataura, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you vacation in Mataura during December, you might find that it is crisp and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mataura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to the Mataura Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Mataura, New Zealand

Mataura, a small town in Southland, New Zealand, offers a variety of attractions for tourists to enjoy. From outdoor activities to historic sites to unique cultural experiences, Mataura has something for everyone. Let's take a look at some of the top tourist attractions in Mataura:

1. The Mataura River

The Mataura River is popular with fly fishers around the world for its brown trout. With its clear water, gentle current, and abundant fish, the river offers the perfect opportunity for a day of fishing or a scenic riverside stroll. Visitors can book a guided fishing trip, rent gear, or participate in catch-and-release tours.

2. The Mataura Museum

The Mataura Museum is a must-visit attraction for those interested in the history of this small town. Exhibits at the museum include displays of early life in Mataura, including the town's founding, industries, and Maori culture. The museum also features a replica of an early Mataura house, which is a great way to experience what life was like in the early days of the town.

3. The Old Hospital

The Old Hospital is a historic building that was once the town's only hospital. The building has since been repurposed and transformed into a community center where visitors can take classes or join in on daily life in Mataura.

4. The Hokonui Moonshine Museum

The Hokonui Moonshine Museum is a must-visit attraction for those interested in the colorful history of Mataura. The museum tells the story of the illegal moonshine trade, which flourished in the area during the Prohibition era. Visitors can view historic artifacts, learn about the distilling process, and even sample some of the famous moonshine.

5. The Mataura Island Bird Sanctuary

Located just outside of Mataura, the Mataura Island Bird Sanctuary is a nature preserve that is home to a diverse range of bird species. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary or explore it on their own. With its diverse flora and fauna, the sanctuary is a great place to get in touch with nature and learn about the local environment.

In conclusion, Mataura offers a range of attractions that cater to tourists' varied interests. From outdoor activities to cultural experiences to historical sites, the town has something for everyone. Whether it's fishing, exploring museums, or learning about the town's moonshine past, Mataura is sure to captivate and inspire all visitors.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Gray Summit, Missouri, United States of America, Mount Juliet, Tennessee, United States of America, Smithton, Tasmania, Australia, Marblehead, Massachusetts, United States of America, Thiruvayaru, India, Balikesir, Turkey, Vall del Corb, Spain, Bungus Bay, Indonesia, Hunchun, China, Honduras, Honduras, and Grenå, Denmark.