New Zealand Climate Guide
Strike up a conversation with a farmer and he'll probably say, 'I reckon it won't rain tomorrow, but then again… it might.' Weather can be so localised it may be raining on his farm, but sunny only 20km away. Television weather predictions are relatively accurate but the safest option when exploring New Zealand is to be prepared.
ClimateNew Zealand's maritime climate is temperate with an average of 2000 sunshine hours a year. January and February are the warmest months, with July/August usually the coldest. Average temperatures range from 7ºC in winter to 16ºC in summer, although in some places, summer temperatures can hit the 30s, and winter temperatures can drop as low as -10ºC. The Far North of the North Island is more sub-tropical, and areas such as Nelson/Marlborough, Hawkes Bay, Eastland and the Bay of Plenty enjoy higher than average sunshine hours. Milford Sound, famous for its spectacular scenery, is one of the country's wettest areas, with up to 7m of rain falling a year.
SeasonsNew Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the northern hemisphere, so Europe and America's summer corresponds with our winter. Spring is from September to November; summer is from December to March; winter is from June to August; and autumn from April to June.
For further weather information see the
NZ MetService.
Sun Damage
Due to its clean atmosphere and the Antarctica ozone hole, New Zealand's sun is remarkably strong. Sunburn is a real risk, so a good sunblock with a high SPF factor, sunglasses and a cap or hat are a must. Try to stay out of the sun during the hottest hours from 12-4pm.
What to Wear
In summer, a light jersey and trousers are handy for cooler evenings. Shorts/skirts and T-shirts/polo shirts, sandals and a pair of the classic Kiwi ‘jandals’ are great for warmer weather. In winter, pack and wear several light layers, and bring a thick coat if you are travelling to the snow. A must for all seasons is a shower-proof jacket, and the more adventurous should bring a good, waterproof raincoat and rain-trousers. If you are planning day walks or longer hikes into the bush or mountains take supportive, waterproof footwear, woollen socks and warm jerseys, hats and gloves.