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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Aussie Briefly Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
New Zealand’s weather by month swings from warm, humid summers (December–February) to cool, rainy winters (June–August), with the driest stretch in the east of both islands. The live forecast above shows current conditions across the country.
How does New Zealand’s weather vary month to month?
The North Island stays milder year-round, while the South Island sees sharper seasonal swings. January and February are the warmest months, with average highs around 20–25°C in the north and 22–28°C in the east. July is the coolest, dropping to 5–12°C in many centres. Rainfall is highest on the west coast of the South Island—up to 300 mm in winter—and lowest in Central Otago and the Canterbury Plains. For exact temperatures in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit, check the live forecast above; our Australia weather hub also has regional comparisons.
When is the best month to visit New Zealand?
That depends on what you’re after. Summer (December–February) offers beach weather and long daylight hours, ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Autumn (March–May) has stable, mild days and fewer crowds. Winter (June–August) brings skiing in the Southern Alps and rain in the west, while spring (September–November) is changeable but often dry and sunny in the east. For outdoor activities, October–November and February–March are popular. See the weather radar to track incoming systems.
What is the coldest month in New Zealand?
July is the coldest month across both islands, with average lows of 2–6°C in the South Island and 6–10°C in the North. Frost and snow are common in alpine areas, while coastal cities stay relatively milder.
Does it snow in New Zealand?
Yes, heavy snow falls in the Southern Alps, the Central Plateau, and the Otago ranges during winter (June–August). Snow occasionally reaches low-altitude towns in the south, but rarely in the north beyond Mount Ruapehu.
When is New Zealand’s rainfall lowest by month?
February and March are the driest months in most regions, especially in the east of both islands. Central Otago often sees less than 30 mm in February, while the west coast remains wet year-round.