Weather in New Zealand

weather and climate in New ZealandLocated in the southern hemisphere, just 1,500km east of Australia and 3,000km north of the South Pole, lies the Land of the Long White Cloud, the Maori name for the adventurous destination of New Zealand. 

New Zealand comprises of the North Island and The South Island, which are divided by the Tasmanian Sea. Despite being geographically close in distance, the two islands experience a slightly different climatic conditions throughout the year, with the North Island temperatures tending to be consistently higher than those of its southern counterpart. The North Island also experiences more rain than South Island.

The far north has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures, while the far south has a cool temperate climate. Alpines run throughout the islands, at times creating a stark contrast between the eastern and western parts of New Zealand. This also means that the climate and weather in New Zealand is often unpredictable. 

January and February are the peak summer months and temperatures range from 14°C to 19°C (57°F to 66°F) on North Island and 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F) on South Island. Recent summers have been hotter, with temperatures reaching over 35°C (95°F) in extreme cases. 

July is the heart of winter and temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) in the north and 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F) in the south. The weather is typically cooler in the south and travellers should be aware of winter extremes that can be as low as -10°C (50°F). New Zealand has a few particularly cold micro-climates, which means that weather may change drastically over short distances. Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) have mild, but generally unpredictable temperatures.

New Zealand is wettest in winter and the northern island has the most rainfall. In the middle of winter, rainfall in the north ranges from 100mm to 120mm (3.9in to 4.7in) and in the south from around 65mm to 75mm (2.4in to 2.8in). Summer rainfall in New Zealand is much lower, ranging from 55mm (2.2in) in the south to 75mm (3in) in the northPlaces like Mount Cook, Hokitika and Milford Sound also have unusually high yearly averages of 4,500mm (177in), 3,000mm (118in) and nearly 7,000mm (276in) respectively

Travel around New Zealand is easiest by car and the longest distance from the north to the south takes approximately 28 hours to complete. There are also ferries available between the northern and southern islands. Bus, coach and railway cover both islands and there are daily domestic flights between major cities and international destinations. 

 

When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

The weather in New Zealand makes it a fantastic place to embrace the outdoors and each season offers a unique experience. December and January is the best time to visit for a summer holiday, while February and March are also good for travellers who want to catch the sun but avoid the crowds and the hiked-up prices of peak tourist season. Hikers should visit in spring and autumn when the weather is cool and relatively dry, while winter is best suited to those travelling to the alpines for snow sport. May and early June are the best months for budget travel in New Zealand.

 

What to pack for a holiday in New Zealand

The dress code in New Zealand is generally quite relaxed, but smart-casual outfits are best for restaurants and nightlife settings. Summer and spring visitors should pack light clothes, beachwear, T-shirts, shorts, sandals and a hat. Sunscreen is also essential. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack some warmer clothes and  a raincoat or umbrella. 

Travellers to New Zealand in winter and autumn will need warm clothes and, especially if they are hiking, going to the south or the alpines. Jeans, long-sleeved shirts and tops, jerseys, gloves and warm hats are also highly recommended. Those travelling for skiing and snow sports, or autumn and spring hiking need the appropriate snow gear, hiking boots or walking shoes and accessories. Layering is always advisable, especially if travelling around the country, as the temperature can vary. 

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in January

Average temperatures in New Zealand in January: North Island 14°C to 19°C (57°F to 66°F), South Island 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in January: North Island 20°C (°F), South Island 14°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in January: North Island 72mm (2.8in), South Island 62mm (2.4in)
Note: January is commonly the hottest month of the year, the beaches are packed and it's peak tourist season. Heat waves may occur, with the temperature reaching over 30°C (86°F), so pack sunscreen and hats.
Events: Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta is held in late January to celebrate the founding of the province. 

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in February

Average temperatures in New Zealand in February: North Island 14°C to 19°C (57°F to 66°F), South Island 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in February: North Island 21°C (°F), South Island 14°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in February: North Island 75mm (3in), South Island 56mm (2.2in)
Note: February is officially the last month of the summer, ideal for those wishing to enjoy New Zealand's warm weather without the crowds, as schools re-open and the holiday ends for the locals.
Events: New Zealand International Sevens, an annual seven-a-side rugby tournament, takes place in Wellington with top teams from around the world flocking into the city. The Kai Festival is an annual event celebrating Maori culture in Kawhia, held in early February.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in March

Average temperatures in New Zealand in March: North Island 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F), South Island 9°C to 14°C (48°F to 57°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in March: North Island 21°C (°F), South Island 14°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in March: North Island 85mm (3.3in), South Island 61mm (2.4in)

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in April

Average temperatures in New Zealand in April: North Island 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), South Island 7°C to 11°C (45°F to 52°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in April: North Island 20°C (°F), South Island 15°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in April: North Island 88mm (3.5in), South Island 59mm (2.3in)
Note: April is the heart of autumn and rainfall remains steady, with temperatures becoming milder. This season is ideal for hikers and those wishing to travel the New Zealand countryside.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in May

Average temperatures in New Zealand in May: North Island 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F), South Island 4°C to 9°C (40°F to 48°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in May: North Island 18°C (°F), South Island 12°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in May: North Island 99mm (3.9in), South Island 69mm (2.7in)
Note: The weather in New Zealand becomes colder and wetter in May. Hikers can still enjoy the countryside, but must remember to pack extra layers to protect themselves from the elements.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in June

Average temperatures in New Zealand in June: North Island 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F), South Island 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in June: North Island 17°C (°F), South Island 11°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in June: North Island 116mm (4.6in), South Island 73mm (2.9in)
Note: June is wet and cold throughout New Zealand, with a high rainfall in the north and low temperatures in the south. This is the perfect time for winter sports in the mountains.
Events: Matariki, the Maori New Year, is held in Wellington and celebrated with traditional dance and music, as well as other events. 

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in July

Average temperatures in New Zealand in July: North Island 5°C to 9°C (41°F to 48°F), South Island 1°C to 5°C (34°F to 41°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in July: North Island 15°C (°F), South Island 11°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in July: North Island 123mm (4.8in), South Island 67mm (2.6in)
Note: July is the coldest and wettest month of the year. Expect high rainfall in the north and beware of extremely cold temperatures as low as -10°C. 
Events: The Queenstown Winter Festival is a winter sports event held in Queenstown in late July.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in August

Average temperatures in New Zealand in August: North Island 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F), South Island 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in August: North Island 15°C (°F), South Island 10°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in August: North Island 102mm (4in), South Island 63mm (2.5in)
Note: August is the end of winter and has slightly less rain and marginally warmer temperatures than June and July. It's still an ideal time for winter sports visitors to travel to New Zealand. 

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in September 

Average temperatures in New Zealand in September: North Island 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F), South Island 4°C to 9°C (39°F to 48°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in September: North Island 15°C (°F), South Island 10°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in September: North Island 92mm (3.6in), South Island 60mm (2.4in)
Note: This month is perfect for hikers wanting clear trails and decent weather to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in October

Average temperatures in New Zealand in October: North Island 9°C to 13°C (48°F to 55°F), South Island 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in October: North Island 16°C (°F), South Island 11°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in October: North Island 92mm (3.6in), South Island 66mm (2.6in)
Note: October is the ideal month for visitors who want to avoid the large summer crowds and experience the natural beauty of New Zealand with a bit of hiking or walking.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in November

Average temperatures in New Zealand in November: North Island 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), South Island 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in November: North Island 17°C (°F), South Island 12°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in November: North Island 80mm (3.1in), South Island 66mm (2.6in)
Note: Rainfall is relatively low in this month and temperatures are mild, especially on North Island.

 

Climate and Weather in New Zealand in December

Average temperatures in New Zealand in December: North Island 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F), South Island 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F)
Average sea temperatures in New Zealand in December: North Island 19°C (°F), South Island 14°C (°F)
Average rainfall in New Zealand in December: North Island 88mm (3.1in), South Island 68mm (2.7in)
Note: December is the beginning of the summer holiday season. The beaches swell with tourists as the temperatures rise to highs of 20°C (68°F) or more along the coast. Raincoats and umbrellas are advised as there's still of chance of rain in December.