Weather in New Zealand: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

New Zealand enjoys a moderate climate, without extremes of hot or cold. This is due not only to the latitude of the country but to the fact that most of New Zealand's landmass is relatively close to the sea. Having such a maritime climate means there is an abundance of sunshine and pleasant temperatures for most of the year.

New Zealand's long narrow shape is dominated by two main geographic features—the proximity of the sea, and mountains (the most famous of the latter are the Southern Alps which traverse almost the entire length of the South Island). The North and South Islands have quite different geographic features and this is reflected in the climate as well. Both islands experience a marked difference in the weather between the eastern and western sides, too. The prevailing wind is westerly, so on that coast, the beaches are generally wild and rugged with stronger winds. The eastern coast is much milder, with sandy beaches good for swimming and generally fewer rainy days.

In the far north of the North Island, summer weather is subtropical and high in humidity with temperatures as warm as 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). Winter temperatures are rarely much below freezing on this island, apart from the inland mountain regions in the middle of the island. In any season, the North Island can receive quite high rainfall, which accounts for the country's lush green environment. Northland and Coromandel have higher than average amounts of rain.

The Southern Alps neatly divide the east and west coasts. South of Christchurch, snow is common in the winter. Summers can be hot in areas of the South Island.

Rainfall in New Zealand is reasonably high, although more so in the west than in the east. Where there are mountains, such as along the South Island, weather is cool and sees more rain. That is why then west coast of the South Island is particularly wet; in fact, Fiordland, in the southwest of the South Island has amongst the highest rainfall of anywhere on earth.

Any time of year is a good time to visit New Zealand; it all depends on what you are wanting to do. Spring, summer, and fall are busier, but the quieter months of winter (June to August) can be a wonderful time for snow-based activities such as skiing and snowboarding and the South Island. 

And remember, everything in the southern hemisphere is the other way around: It gets colder the further south you go, and summer covers Christmas while winter is in the middle of the year. A barbecue on the beach on Christmas Day is a long-held kiwi tradition that confuses many a visitor from the northern hemisphere!

Sunshine in New Zealand

New Zealand has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. The sun can be rather harsh and burn times are short, especially in the summer. It is essential to apply a high-protection sunblock in the summer months, but have it on hand no matter when you visit so that you can be protected on sunny days.

New Zealand enjoys long sunshine hours in most places and at most times of the year. There is not a huge difference in daylight hours between the summer and winter, although it is more accentuated in the south. In the North Island, daylight hours are generally from around 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer and 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter. In the South Island add an hour to the summer at each end of the day and subtract one in the winter for a very rough guide.

Popular Places in New Zealand

Auckland

Auckland's subtropical climate is characterized by warm, humid summers and cool, wet winters. The city is one of New Zealand's warmest and sunniest, with an average daily temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) in February. In winter, temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius) in July. The city receives significant rainfall year-round, usually upwards of 50 inches, but snowfall is extremely rare.

Rotorua

Rotorua is situated on a lake on New Zealand's North Island. It experiences a warm, temperate climate with nearly 60 inches of rainfall annually. The average year-round temperature in Rotorua is 64 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius), but winter temperatures can fall as low as 38 F (3.5 C). July is Rotorua's coldest month, while February is the warmest. 

Wellington

Wellington experiences a marine climate with temperatures rarely exceeding 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) or dropping below 39 F (4 C). During the winter months, the city receives southerly blasts which can make it feel much colder than it actually is. June and July are the wettest months in Wellington, and the city receives 49 inches of rain per year. Unlike much of the rest of New Zealand, Wellington does occasionally receive snow.

Christchurch

Christchurch has a mostly warm, oceanic climate with a sea breeze from the northeast. Temperatures usually range from 73 to 52 degrees Fahrenheit (23 to 11 degrees Celsius). During the winter months, the city experiences frost and occasional snowfall isn't uncommon. Smog is a frequent occurrence in Christchurch, especially during the winter when vehicle exhaust and smoke get trapped above the city. 

Queenstown

Queenstown temperatures hove around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) during the summer months. Winters, however, are equally cold with single-digit temperatures and snowfall. Queenstown is much drier than other parts of New Zealand, receiving just 29 inches of rain annually. 

Spring in New Zealand

New Zealand experiences its spring from September through November. Weather during this time can be quite variable, ranging from cold with frequent frosts to hot and sunny. This is the time to visit if you're interested in spring buds and frolicking lambs. It's also a popular season for white-water rafters, as melting snow increases river levels.

What to pack: Given the season's unpredictability, you'll want to pack clothing prepared for all sorts of weather. Layers in the form of long-sleeve T-shirts, sweaters, and a pullover or jacket are always a good idea, as is an umbrella. 

Summer in New Zealand

New Zealand's summer spans from December through February. The season is punctuated by long, sunny days and warm temperatures, with cooler nights. This a popular season among travelers, as the weather is ideal for everything from hiking to beachgoing to surfing. Popular wine region Marlborough hosts its namesake festival every February, celebrating the best of New Zealand's Rieslings, Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, and more.

What to pack: During the day, light clothes are recommended—with a healthy dose of sunscreen. At night, bring along a sweatshirt or light jacket to weather the cooler temperatures.

Fall in New Zealand

New Zealand's autumn stretches from March through May. These are the months when the country's natural bounty is at its best, as kiwis are harvested and forests blossom with unique flora. Temperatures rarely exceed 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius) and don't usually drop below 46 F (8 C). 

What to pack: Depending on where you'll be visiting, pack light layers that can be removed easily—or added on to. While it rains often in New Zealand, you'll still want to protect yourself from the sun with either a good hat or a high SPF sunscreen.

Winter in New Zealand

New Zealand's winter takes place from June to August. With it comes harsh winds and sometimes heavy snowfall in mountain areas. Still, across much of the country, the climate remains reasonably mild, rarely dipping below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). 

What to pack: If you're visiting the during the winter, pack lots of layers, including a sweater, jacket, raincoat, and umbrella. On the South Island, you'll need a down jacket, a scarf, and a hat as well.