The New Zealand climate
New Zealand is famous for its beautiful landscapes. It's exciting to get out and explore! However, New Zealanders sometimes call our weather 'four seasons in one day' because it can change rapidly. Learn how to be prepared for the New Zealand climate and seasons.
Weather and seasons
New Zealand’s weather is quite mild, but it can change quickly! It’s usually warmer and wetter in the north, and cooler and drier in the south.
MetService(external link that opens in a new tab) (the national forecast) and NiwaWeather (external link that opens in a new tab)have regularly updated weather forecasts for all of New Zealand and weather alerts for New Zealand's fast changing conditions.
Weather forecasts are also included in news bulletins on radio and TV. In New Zealand the temperature is measured in Celsius not Fahrenheit. The seasons in New Zealand might be different to what you’re used to at home.
Temperatures you can expect
But remember that they vary across the country:
- in spring (September to November) the average daytime temperature is 16-19C (61-66F).
- in summer (December to February) the average daytime temperature is 20-25C (68-77F).
- in autumn/fall (March to May) the average daytime temperature is 17-21C (62-70F).
- in winter (June to August) the average daytime temperature is 12-16C (53-61F).
Tip: It's often warmer in the north and cooler in the south. Be sure to research the average temperatures in the town or city you'll be living in so you can pack the right clothing! You can use this tool(external link that opens in a new tab) to look up the average daily temperature or rainfall where you're living.
What to wear
New Zealand's climate is temperate, which means temperatures can change a lot between summer and winter. Our winters are mild compared to places like Canada, but it can still be colder here than you might expect!
It's a good idea to bring a windproof and waterproof jacket, a sunhat, and some warm clothes like a sweatshirt or jersey (New Zealanders often call this a 'jumper). If you're here over winter, bring a puffer jacket. Remember, the weather changes quickly here even in one day, so being prepared will keep you safe, dry and happy while you're out exploring your town or city.
If you’re planning to explore New Zealand’s walking or cycle trails, it’s smart to be well-prepared. Weather conditions can change unexpectedly at any time of year, even in the summer months. New Zealand's Mountain Safety Council offers this great tool(external link that opens in a new tab) to help you prepare and stay safe in New Zealand's more remote natural environments.
Tip: If you're out for the day, bring a small backpack with you to carry extra items like your sunglasses, a sunhat and jersey. You just never know when the weather is going to change.
Protecting yourself from the sun
There’s not much air pollution in New Zealand so the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are very strong. Your skin can burn in New Zealand, even in the winter. In summer your skin can burn in just 15 minutes (even if it's cloudy)!
UV rays can cause serious damage to your skin and eyes, so if you're going to be spending time outside in summer, be aware and be prepared. Always carry sunscreen in your bag if you're out exploring. You can buy sunscreen at your local supermarket or pharmacy.
It’s a good idea to:
- use a SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outdoors, even if you’re going to be in the shade – apply it at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours (more often if you’ve been exercising or swimming).
- wear a hat and sunglasses whenever you’re outside.
- stay in the shade during the middle of the day (between 11am and 4pm) when you're more likely to get sunburnt.
Check out Sunsmart(external link that opens in a new tab) for more information on how to stay safe in the sun over the summer in New Zealand.
Tip: New Zealanders love talking about the weather – especially the wind in Wellington! If you’re ever stuck for something to say when you first meet someone, the weather is always a good topic to choose!
Related pages
Preparing to travel
You're about to start your New Zealand adventure! To make sure you're prepared, here are some travel tips for moving to New Zealand such as suggestions for what you should bring.
Travelling in New Zealand
Getting to New Zealand might take you a long time in a plane, but when you're here it's easy to get around with many transportation options. Find out the easiest ways for getting around New Zealand when studying here.
Maximise your experience
Being an international student is a very exciting time, and there are lots of ways to make the most of that time here in Aotearoa New Zealand.