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Climate in New Zealand

Climate in New Zealand

Climate in New Zealand...
New Zealand has an oceanic, temperate climate; although it varies from subtropical in the north to almost subarctic in the mountainous areas of the south, overall it's relatively mild.

Seasonal variations are not pronounced: summers never get uncomfortably hot; winters are mild, with snow usually confined to the high country and southern lowlands.

Rainfall levels vary throughout New Zealand; winter tends to be the wettest season - but not so wet that it should be avoided.

If you're coming from the Northern Hemisphere, keep in mind that the seasons are opposite - spring is September through November, summer December through February, autumn March through May, and winter June through August.

North Island of New Zealand...
The North Island tends to be warmer and drier than the South Island, though the highest mountain peaks often have snow year-round. It has an average rainfall of 130 cm and prevailing westerly winds. Auckland (where most visitors enter New Zealand) averages a summer temperature of 23deg. C and a winter temperature of 14deg..

Wellington, perched on the edge of Cook Strait, generally receives slightly colder weather with temperatures ranging from 26deg. C in summer to 2deg. C in winter. The capital also has a reputation for windy weather, at times making the ferry trip between the two main islands unforgettably rough.

South Island of New Zealand...
The differences in temperature and weather in each area are more pronounced in the South Island. The pressure systems travel west to east (the Southern Alps have a noticeable "wet" and "dry" side), the lows dumping considerable rain and cold temperatures on the west side of the mountains; snow is a permanent fixture on the highest peaks.

On the east side of the Southern Alps the rainfall can be as low as 30 cm and temperatures are a good deal warmer. On the east coast, Christchurch averages temperatures in the low 20s C in summer and low teens in winter. Dunedin, farther south, averages 19 degrees C in summer and 10 degrees C in winter, and Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city, experiences slightly colder temperatures. Snow is relatively common in the southern lowlands as well as the higher hills, and occasionally falls even at sea level.

Mountain Weather...
As the mountains generally run north-south and the pressure systems move west-east, the worst weather hits the highest barrier - the Southern Alps.

Rivers and streams can flood rapidly from snowmelt and rain, avalanche risks increase dramatically, and temperatures drop quickly. Watch for an increase in wind strength and the formation of large sheets of cloud. Also watch for clouds gathering over the lee side of the ranges--and expect rain. Gale-force winds, snow, or blizzards can come with these storms at any time of year in the mountains. The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council suggests three important rules to follow: be aware of approaching bad weather (expect it in the mountains), be adequately prepared with warm, wind- and waterproof clothing, and don't cross flooded rivers - wait until they subside (generally as quickly as they flood).

For detailed weather forecasts, check the newspaper or tune in to local radio or TV stations. If you're in a national park, park HQ usually has the latest local weather forecast.

Clothing to Suit the Climate...
If you're traveling around the country you're sure to bump into most types of weather - and even if you're staying in one area, the weather still changes rapidly.

The safest policy is to be equipped for everything, no matter the season. Wear layers of clothing (shirt, sweater, and windproof jacket) to strip off and replace as needed. Wet-weather gear, a warm windproof jacket, wool sweater or cardigan, bathing suit, and comfortable footwear (hiking boots if you're venturing off the beaten track) are essentials at all times of year.