Weather, Climate and Temperatures in New Zealand

The climatic conditions are quite different depending on season and region. In the New Zealand Summer from December to February the warmest areas are the northern and eastern part of the North Island and the coolest areas can be found in the south of the Southern Island.

Average temperatures in the summer are between 19 and 23 oC. In the winter months (June to August) the coolest areas are inland Canterbury and Central Otago whereas it is warmer at the northern part of the North Island. Average temperatures are between 10 and 14 oC. Generally, it is always a bit cooler in the South Island. The Southern Alps function as a weather barrier down at the South Island, leading to a wetter climate on its western side and a dry climate on the eastern side of the mountains. In winter you will find snow in the Alps region and in a few other places too. In the North Island the western part is also wetter than the eastern part.

Due to the overall temperate maritime climate the weather can change easily from one minute to the next. This means that as a traveller you should always be prepared for rain and wind. So always pack a rain coat / waterproof jacket and an additional jumper and a woollen hat when walking in the bush or elsewhere.