New Zealand Weather

New Zealand Weather and Climate

In New Zealand, weather and climate is heavily influenced by proximity to the sea, the topography (namely the Southern Alps) and the unique latitude zone it lies in (I.e. between 37 and 47 degrees south of the Tropic of Capricorn). The two islands of New Zealand have a moderate, maritime climate and sunshine is generally plentiful year round.

There are discernible differences, however: the north displays subtropical weather during the summer months whilst in winter, the alpine areas of the South Island experience temperatures as low as -10°C. The mean annual temperatures range from 16°C  in the north of the country to 10°C in the south; the warmest month is typically January or February, and the coldest is usually July.

The weather and climate of New Zealand is categorized into four distinct seasons: summer, which lasts from December through to February; autumn, from March through to May; the winter season, from June through to August and Spring, which lasts from September to November. In keeping with this, the warmest months are December, January, February and March with temperatures ranging between 20 and 33 degrees Celsius. The winter months of June, July and August are by far the coldest with temperatures from 5-15 degrees Celsius. In general the temperature declines the further south one travels.

For sunshine, travellers are advised to check out areas like Hawke’s Bay, the Bay of Plenty, Nelson and Marlborough. New Zealand’s warmer months are perfect for outdoor activities and the fine beaches become hot spots for surfing, sunbathing and other water sports. With little in the way of air pollution, the UV rays in summer can be particularly strong.

In terms of rainfall, most parts of the country experience between 600 and 1600 mm spread out throughout the year, with an expected dry spell in summer. The fairly generous rainfall is well-received by the country’s ample forested areas and pastoral farming and horticultural land. Winter brings more rain to the North Island, although temperatures are cooler in the South. The wettest area of New Zealand, however, is the west coast of the South Island; in contrast, the area to the east of the Southern Alps, only 100kms away, is the driest.

New Zealand is also known for being windy and blessed with snowy landscapes. Prevailing winds come from the east to west, and can take the form of gentle breezes which are refreshing in the hot and humid summer months, to bitterly cold southerlies from the Antarctic in winter.

Snow appears mainly on the mountains and surrounding areas of both islands and is attractive to some for skiing, hiking and photography opportunities. Snow is uncommon in the coastal areas of the North Island and west of the South Island, although the east and south of the latter occasionally experiences snowfall in winter. Frosty weather can occur in most parts of New Zealand on cold, clear nights.

With a diverse landscape, weather and climate to match, New Zealand seeks to entice and capture the senses all year around.