Weather New Zealand

Of course, we can tell you what the rainfall was like in Auckland (110 mm) or Christchurch (26 mm) in January 2004. Or what the mean temperatures were in that same month in Auckland (20.5°C) or Christchurch (18.8°C). But this doesn't say much: the amount of rainfall in Christchurch was well below average, whereas the amount of rainfall in Auckland and the temperatures in both cities were above average. (For your information: the mean air temperature in Auckland in January is 19.3°C and in Christchurch 17.4°C.)

The current temperatures in Auckland and Christchurch are:

If you like detailed weather reports, download the summaries that are available from the website of the National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research: weather New Zealand - summaries ). However, these reports don't tell you that the weather in New Zealand can change very quickly. This is partly due to New Zealand's geographical location, and partly to its rugged terrain.

Weather New Zealand: east vs. west

Especially on the South Island, the difference between the east and the west coast can be huge. Its south west coast (Fiordland in particular, with its spectacular Milford Sound) is one of the wettest places on earth, with an annual rainfall of over 6500 mm! One of the driest areas of New Zealand however, in Central Otago, is located just a few hundred km to the east. This big difference is caused by the high mountain range that runs from north to south (the Southern Alps). It blocks the incoming (western) wind from the Tasman Sea, and makes it drop most of its moisture.

On the North Island, the difference between the east and the west coast is much smaller. This island doesn't have a mountain range like the Southern Alps, though it does have some big volcanoes (see climbing a volcanoe) that block the incoming western wind somewhat and make it dump its moisture.

Weather New Zealand: what to bring

As it's impossible to tell what the weather will be like during your New Zealand camper van vacation, be prepared and bring warm as well as light clothing. So make sure you bring a warm fleece or a woolen sweater, and good waterproof clothing, but don't forget to pack enough T-shirts and shorts either!

Tip

If you're used to °F instead of °C, please use this temperature converter.