Climate of New Zealand — Month by Month
Country-wide average for New Zealand. Part of Australia and New Zealand, Oceania.
Located in Australia and New Zealand, Oceania, New Zealand has a seasonal climate. Country-wide average temperatures range from 8.5°C / 47.3°F in July to 18°C / 64.4°F in January, with annual rainfall totalling around 1113 mm / 43.8 in — driest in February (70 mm / 2.8 in), wettest in July (115 mm / 4.5 in). These are national averages; regional variation can be substantial, especially in geographically diverse countries. For city-level detail see the cities section below, and for state or province breakdowns follow the subdivisions link if available.
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| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C64.4°F | 78 mm3.1″ | — |
| February | 17.5°C63.5°F | 70 mm2.8″ | — |
| March | 16°C60.8°F | 85 mm3.3″ | — |
| April | 13.5°C56.3°F | 90 mm3.5″ | — |
| May | 11°C51.8°F | 105 mm4.1″ | — |
| June | 9°C48.2°F | 110 mm4.3″ | — |
| July | 8.5°C47.3°F | 115 mm4.5″ | — |
| August | 9.5°C49.1°F | 110 mm4.3″ | — |
| September | 11.5°C52.7°F | 95 mm3.7″ | — |
| October | 13°C55.4°F | 90 mm3.5″ | — |
| November | 15°C59°F | 85 mm3.3″ | — |
| December | 17°C62.6°F | 80 mm3.1″ | — |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit New Zealand?
New Zealand does not have a clear sunny-and-dry window by our cutoffs. The warmest month is January at 18°C / 64.4°F, and the driest is February at 70 mm / 2.8 in — likely your best travel window.
What is the climate of New Zealand?
New Zealand has country-wide monthly average temperatures ranging from 8.5°C / 47.3°F in July to 18°C / 64.4°F in January. Annual rainfall averages about 1113 mm / 43.8 in, with the wettest month being July (115 mm / 4.5 in) and the driest February (70 mm / 2.8 in). Regional variation within New Zealand can be significant — see subdivision or city pages for detail.
What is the hottest month in New Zealand?
The hottest month in New Zealand is January, with a country-wide average temperature of 18°C / 64.4°F.
What is the coldest month in New Zealand?
The coldest month in New Zealand is July, with a country-wide average temperature of 8.5°C / 47.3°F.
When does it rain most in New Zealand?
The wettest month in New Zealand is July, averaging about 115 mm / 4.5 in of rain. The driest is February with about 70 mm / 2.8 in.