December is one of the best times to visit New Zealand. Summer kicks off this month in the stunningly beautiful island nation, which means warm weather accompanies the Christmas festivities.
It’s a great time to visit if you are interested in going to the beach, trekking, or the myriad other outdoor activities New Zealand has to offer. Fortunately, this time of year still doesn’t have the crowds or high rates that accompany peak summer.
New Zealand Weather in December
December is the beginning of summer in New Zealand, so the weather is usually warm (although not as hot as January or February). Some parts of the country experience windy conditions (especially Auckland and northern Canterbury on the South Island), although December is generally sunny and stable. An increase in daylight hours makes December a great month for outdoor activities. Temperatures are starting to rise across the country, though generally staying cool, with an average New Zealand temperature in December a very pleasant 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius).
On the North Island, even in Wellington, the temperatures will be slightly cooler.
- Average High: 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius)
- Low Average: 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius)
Take into account the humidity in the summer months in New Zealand. Being a maritime environment, surrounded by the sea, the humid climate can bring humidity, although never in an unpleasant way. The other thing to watch out for is the sun. New Zealand has some of the highest UV levels in the world. It is always advisable to cover yourself with a hat and a heavy duty sunscreen of SPF30 or higher.
What to pack
New Zealand’s incredible climatic diversity means that the weather can change in an instant. It’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in just one day, and your packing list should reflect this wild variability. In general, summer is a temperate season, with warm days and cool nights, and fortunately, there is not much precipitation. Jeans and T-shirts are appropriate for most island activities, but easy layering is also recommended, especially for cooler nights and mornings. To get started, your suitcase should include:
- Tank tops and cape tops
- Light sweaters or long-sleeved shirts.
- Jeans
- One pair of non-denim pants, such as bedding or cargo.
- Shorts, which are useful to wear on the beach
- Socks for cozy and cold nights.
- A bathing suit, since you know you will be spending time in the ocean!
December events in New Zealand
In addition to the Christmas holidays, December in New Zealand has a full calendar of other events, including unique festivals that celebrate music, wine, and more.
- Christmas : Christmas is completely different to the Northern Hemisphere, as it occurs in the opposite season (summer instead of winter). However, it is still a major holiday in New Zealand.
- Festival of Lights, New Plymouth, North Island – This free annual event runs from mid-December to early February. At night, the festival transforms the park into an illuminated wonderland.
- Christchurch Wine and Food Festival, Christchurch, South Island – Held in early December, this one-day festival features New Zealand’s best wine producers, food vendors, and live music.
- Festival of Cycling, Christchurch, South Island – The hallmark of this weekend celebration of all things cycling is a 50-mile journey through Christchurch’s iconic Port Hills and Lyttelton Harbor. There are also kiddie rides and a 35 kilometer mountain bike section.
December Travel Tips
- It’s starting to get warm enough to swim off the beaches (the later in the month the better). It’s also a great time for hiking, walking, and enjoying the outdoors in general. Be careful of New Zealand’s unpredictable weather when planning your time outdoors. The weather can be a bit unstable, particularly in Auckland, Northland, and parts of the South Island.
- The pohutukawa is known as the “New Zealand Christmas Tree” due to its profusion of crimson and red flowers that appear around Christmas time. It is one of the most beautiful features of the coastal regions of the North Island during December.
- There are more tourists in New Zealand in December, but fortunately this month it is still easy to find accommodation and attractions.
- New Zealand is very safe. You can dial 111 to connect with ambulance services, the fire department, or the police.
