South Island tracks in October

October is not winter....is spring and a great time to go hiking...don't give up so easy. I suggested the hollyford because there would be others on the track and the track is very well defined...for a first time / few day hike, it would be a good experience and little chance of getting into strife....but there are many others suitable for a first time over night...Abel Tasman....nelson lakes....up the huranui... or you could do one of the great walks like the kepler with a few other walkers...

I been swimming in October before... it was cold. But, yeah October is Spring and the days are getting warm. There can still be snow, and cold stormy days but they are less common and thaw out quicker then in winter.