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New Zealand Weather

Aotearoa - Land of the Long White Cloud

Get accurate weather forecasts for every city, town, village, and region across New Zealand. From the subtropical north to the alpine south, track conditions across both the North Island and South Island with real-time updates and extended forecasts.

513+

Locations

2,000+

Sunshine Hours/Year

10-16°C

Avg Temperature

600-3000mm

Annual Rainfall

Major Cities Weather

Live weather conditions for New Zealand's largest cities

Weather by Region

New Zealand's diverse climate varies dramatically from region to region

Auckland Region
New Zealand's largest city with a subtropical climate, mild winters and warm, humid summers. Known for its harbours and volcanic cones.
15°C avg1,240mm/yearSubtropical oceanic
Wellington Region
The capital city known for its windy conditions. Features a temperate maritime climate with cool winters and mild summers.
13°C avg1,270mm/yearTemperate maritime
Canterbury Region
Home to Christchurch and the Southern Alps. Features four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters.
12°C avg650mm/yearTemperate continental
Otago Region
Known for Queenstown and Central Otago. Features cold winters perfect for skiing and warm, dry summers ideal for wine.
10°C avg380mm/yearSemi-continental
Bay of Plenty
One of New Zealand's sunniest regions with warm beaches and geothermal activity. Popular holiday destination.
15°C avg1,300mm/yearSubtropical
Southland Region
New Zealand's southernmost region featuring Fiordland. Known for dramatic weather changes and stunning wilderness.
10°C avg1,100mm/yearCool temperate
Northland Region
The subtropical north with New Zealand's warmest climate. Features beautiful beaches and the Bay of Islands.
16°C avg1,500mm/yearSubtropical
West Coast
New Zealand's wettest region with lush rainforests, glaciers, and dramatic landscapes. Wild and untamed weather.
11°C avg2,900mm/yearOceanic temperate
Waikato Region
Rolling green farmland with mild, humid conditions. Home to Hobbiton and the mighty Waikato River.
14°C avg1,200mm/yearTemperate oceanic
Nelson-Tasman
New Zealand's sunniest region with golden beaches and national parks. Ideal climate for wine and outdoor activities.
13°C avg970mm/yearTemperate oceanic

Scenic Destinations Weather

Weather forecasts for New Zealand's most iconic natural attractions

All New Zealand Locations

Complete list of 513+ cities, towns, and villages with weather forecasts

South Island

New Zealand Climate Guide

Seasons (Reversed from Northern Hemisphere)

  • Summer: December - February (20-30°C)
  • Autumn: March - May (15-20°C)
  • Winter: June - August (5-15°C)
  • Spring: September - November (12-18°C)

Regional Climate Highlights

  • Northland: Warmest, subtropical climate
  • West Coast: Wettest region, lush rainforests
  • Nelson: Sunniest region, 2,400+ hours/year
  • Central Otago: Most extreme temperatures

Weather Tip:New Zealand is known for experiencing "four seasons in one day." Always be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in mountainous regions and the South Island. Check forecasts regularly when planning outdoor activities.

About New Zealand Weather

New Zealand, known as Aotearoa in Maori ("Land of the Long White Cloud"), features one of the most diverse climates in the world relative to its size.

Stretching from subtropical Northland to the sub-Antarctic Stewart Island, this island nation offers everything from warm beaches to glacial valleys, volcanic plateaus to temperate rainforests.

The country's weather is heavily influenced by its isolation in the South Pacific Ocean, the Southern Alps mountain range that divides the South Island, and prevailing westerly winds.

The West Coast receives some of the highest rainfall in the world, while regions just over the mountains can be remarkably dry. This dramatic contrast creates unique microclimates throughout the country.

Whether you're planning a ski trip to Queenstown, a beach holiday in the Bay of Islands, hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, accurate weather forecasts are essential for making the most of your New Zealand experience.

Our comprehensive weather coverage includes over 500 locations across both islands, from major cities like Auckland and Wellington to remote villages and iconic scenic destinations like Milford Sound and Mount Cook.