New Zealand winter weather climate: best time to visit

The New Zealand Winter Weather is something else and is arguably the best time of year to visit, especially if you’re after some winter sports.

If you’re looking where to go and what to do, then this is your ultimate guide. South Island in New Zealand is notorious for the beautiful snow capped mountains and powdery white dusting on all the landscape. It’s spectacular and it’s time to visit!

The winter months in New Zealand are June, July and August.

Winter brings snow, ice, skating, snow tubing and skiing, so the New Zealand climate has it all. Whatever month you go, you’re going to have a good time.

Half of my family lives in New Zealand so skipped back and forwards throughout the year, and was actually the first place I saw snow! Have a read below for more info on locations to visit and what to expect from the winter temperatures here.

Have a look at our North Island Itinerary and South Island itinerary for inspiration for best things to do in New Zealand.

Not sure where to go? Have a look at my article on North Island VS South Island New Zealand, which is better for you!

New Zealand winter weather

Read more info on the summer weather in New Zealand here.

Here’s your guide to the Land of the Long White Cloud – which is the native Maori name for the country, Aotearoa.

Winter in New Zealand is a time of contrasts, where snow-capped peaks meet lush native forests and rugged coastlines. And it’s all pretty spectacular!

As the Southern Hemisphere prepares for cooler temperatures, travellers flock to this island nation to experience its fun winter outdoor adventures, the amazing Maori culture, and frankly, the breathtaking landscapes.

From the snow-covered Southern Alps to the sunny shores of the Bay of Islands, New Zealand’s winter months have just as much attraction as the summer months!

Average Temperatures and weather conditions during the winter months of June, July, and August, New Zealand experiences mild temperatures across much of the country. In the North Island, average temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), with regions like Hawke’s Bay having warmer days and cool nights.

In the South Island, temperatures are generally always cooler, averaging between 2°C and 10°C (36°F to 50°F). However, in the inland alpine areas of the South Island and the mountainous regions, temperatures can drop to pretty freezing cold temperatures, so whilst it might be chilly, it’s perfect for some winter snow sports!

High rainfall and sudden changes while winter in New Zealand generally has moderate rainfall, particularly along the west coast of the South Island and in the mountain regions, the weather can be unpredictable.

Sudden changes is generally pretty common in the mountains, including cold fronts and storms, can sweep in unexpectedly, bringing rain, wind and snow. However, these changes in the temperatures shapes the country’s climate.

Best Time for Winter Sports and Activities For those seeking winter sports and activities, New Zealand’s winter season is the perfect time to visit.

Ski fields in Central Otago and the Southern Alps have the best skiing and snowboarding conditions, as well as snowshoeing and alpine hiking. In the North Island, visitors can explore native forests, indulge in water sports along the coast, or take part in cultural experiences such as Matariki celebrations.

Best Places to visit New Zealand’s widely varying and incredible landscapes mean there are a tonne of winter activities you can get involved in!

The breathtaking scenery of Milford Sound is downright outstanding in winter, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in the dark waters of the fiord.

Central Otago, known for its vineyards and pretty little towns (see Lake Tekapo), it becomes a huge tourism destination in the winter months; think wine tasting, relaxing in thermal spas and cozying up by the fire.

In the Bay of Islands, you can enjoy sunny days and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring the region’s stunning coastline and historic sites.

So, grab your coat, embrace the chill, and discover the beauty of New Zealand’s winter months – it’s worth it!

The Seasons of New Zealand

Spring (September to November):

• Temperatures start to rise
• Flowers bloom, and landscapes become lush and green
• Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and visiting gardens

Summer (December to February):

• Generally warm temperatures
• Longer daylight hours
• Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and water sports

Autumn/Fall (March to May):

• Mild temperatures
• Vibrant reds, golds and ambers in all the foliage in some regions
• Great for hiking and outdoor exploration

Winter (June to August):

• Cool to cold temperatures, especially in the South Island
• Snowfall in mountainous areas, perfect for skiing and snowboarding
• Shorter daylight hours

Autumn in New Zealand

Autumn in New Zealand is something else. The vibrant reds, oranges, golds and auburn hues transform the landscape. And of course, it’s a good time for photographers!

The ideal place is pretty much anywhere.

There is moderate rainfall and it starts to get a little cooler.

Tropical cyclones in New Zealand tend to occur in early autumn and also in late spring. The official cyclone season in the South Pacific region, including New Zealand, runs from November to April, with the peak of activity typically observed from January to March.

Winter In New Zealand

Fast forward to June, July and August, when it’s winter in NZ (the winter months are opposite in the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere). The winter season is unreal.

The winter months start cooling down a bit, especially in the South Island. You’re looking at around 11°C (52°F) down there, while the North Island is still a bit milder, hovering around 15°C (59°F).

July tends to be the coldest month of the year.

It’s a bit wetter too, with around 14-15 rainy days, but, you still get some solid daylight, about 9 hours or so.

So, that’s the gist of it! Both Islands have their pros & cons but frankly, they’re both beautiful.

The winter months also has high rainfall; the rainiest months in New Zealand tend to be June, July and August.

Have a look at the weather month by month below. Some of the ideal places you need to visit include Lake Tekapo, which has the perfect conditions for a winter wonderland… excellent skiing in the Southern Alps, ice skating and it’s a good idea to go snow tubing at Tekapo Hot Springs.

New Zealand Weather Month by Month

Have a look at the below weather for each month, so you know the best time to visit New Zealand for you and the famous New Zealand winter temperatures! Keep an eye out for the hours of sunshine which cant make a difference on your days out.

New Zealand Weather in January

• North Island Average temperature: 23°C (73°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
• Average rainy days: 8
• Average daylight hours: 15
• Average sunrise time: 6:15 AM
• Average sunset time: 9:30 PM

New Zealand Weather in February

• North Island Average temperature: 25°C (77°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
• Average rainy days: 7
• Average daylight hours: 14
• Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
• Average sunset time: 9:00 PM

New Zealand Weather in March

• North Island Average temperature: 23°C (73°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
• Average rainy days: 9
• Average daylight hours: 12
• Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
• Average sunset time: 8:15 PM

New Zealand Weather in April

• North Island Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 17°C (63°F)
• Average rainy days: 11
• Average daylight hours: 11
• Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
• Average sunset time: 6:45 PM

New Zealand Weather in May

• North Island Average temperature: 17°C (63°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 14°C (57°F)
• Average rainy days: 12
• Average daylight hours: 9
• Average sunrise time: 8:15 AM
• Average sunset time: 5:30 PM

New Zealand Weather in June

• North Island Average temperature: 15°C (59°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 11°C (52°F)
• Average rainy days: 14
• Average daylight hours: 9
• Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
• Average sunset time: 5:15 PM

New Zealand Weather in July

• North Island Average temperature: 14°C (57°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 10°C (50°F)
• Average rainy days: 15
• Average daylight hours: 9
• Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
• Average sunset time: 5:30 PM

New Zealand Weather in August

• North Island Average temperature: 15°C (59°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 11°C (52°F)
• Average rainy days: 15
• Average daylight hours: 10
• Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
• Average sunset time: 6:00 PM

New Zealand Weather in September

• North Island Average temperature: 16°C (61°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 12°C (54°F)
• Average rainy days: 13
• Average daylight hours: 12
• Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
• Average sunset time: 6:30 PM

New Zealand Weather in October

• North Island Average temperature: 18°C (64°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 14°C (57°F)
• Average rainy days: 11
• Average daylight hours: 13
• Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
• Average sunset time: 7:45 PM

New Zealand Weather in November

• North Island Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 16°C (61°F)
• Average rainy days: 9
• Average daylight hours: 14
• Average sunrise time: 6:00 AM
• Average sunset time: 8:30 PM

New Zealand Weather in December

• North Island Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
• South Island Average temperature: 18°C (64°F)
• Average rainy days: 9
• Average daylight hours: 15
• Average sunrise time: 5:45 AM
• Average sunset time: 9:15 PM

Quick links

Have a look at some of my other Aotearoa / New Zealand travel guides for things to do in North Island and your South Island New Zealand Road Trip!

• Lake Tekapo from Queenstown Road Trip
• Glamping on South Island
• Best things to do in Lake Tekapo
• Wanaka lavender farm
• Onsen hot pools
• Akaroa Dolphin Watching
• Is New Zealand cheaper than Australia?
• Does New Zealand have dangerous animals?

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