Like the last month of spring, the weather in New Zealand becomes noticeably warmer and (generally more stable) during November. Although there can be cold pops (particularly on the South Island), most Kiwis expect November to be the start of warmer weather.
Although the ski season is over, it is a great time of year to explore the country. The days get longer and it is pleasant warm to explore the great outdoors. Despite the excellent weather, it is a quiet month for tourists. Accommodations are plentiful and generally charge low season rates.
New Zealand Weather in November
New Zealand is located between 37 and 47 degrees south of the Tropic of Capricorn. Remember that everything is the opposite of the northern hemisphere. Winter is warm and summer is colder. To put it in perspective, Christmas beach barbecues are common.
The New Zealand seasons can take a while to get used to if you are from the Northern Hemisphere:
- Spring: September, October, November
- Summer: December, January, February
- Fall: March, April, May
- Winter: June, July, August
Both the northern and southern islands of New Zealand enjoy a moderate maritime climate. In general, it gets colder the further south you go. Most of New Zealand’s landmass is relatively close to the sea and having such a maritime climate means that there is plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures for most of the year.
On both islands there tends to be a marked difference in climate between the east and west sides. The prevailing wind is from the west, so on that coast, the beaches are generally wild and rugged with stronger winds. The east coast is much gentler, with sandy beaches suitable for bathing and generally less rain. November is considered part of spring in New Zealand. Some spring temperature averages in key population centers are:
- Bay of Islands: 67 degrees Fahrenheit high / 48 degrees Fahrenheit low
- Auckland: 65 F / 52 F
- Rotorua: 63 F / 45 F
- Christchurch: 63 F / 45 F
- Queenstown: 61 F / 41 F
While the weather is mild, conditions can change throughout the day, so it’s a good idea to prepare for a bit of cold or a rain shower when spending time outside. In any season, the North Island can receive quite high rainfall, which explains the lush green environment of the country. Northland and Coromandel have the most rainfall in the country, while Auckland has an average of 12 rainy days in November, Bay of Islands and Rotorua receive 11, Christchurch averages seven days and Queenstown receives nine.
New Zealand has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. The sun can be quite harsh and the burning times are short, especially in the summer. As spring approaches summer, it is essential to apply a high-protection sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) during outdoor activities.
What to pack
Most people travel to New Zealand to enjoy natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Although skiing ends in November, it is a good time for hiking. Packing hiking gear (or at the very least, walking gear) is essential. A good pair of hikers can serve you well for sightseeing and light hikes.
Stratification is essential due to the changing climate. A wool vest or under jacket can be helpful. Prepare for rain and gusts of wind with a light waterproof jacket and a hat or umbrella. Clothing that protects you from the sun is recommended. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
You will also need to bring lighter clothing (and a bathing suit) to relax or go to the beach. Remember, November is spring and December is summer.
November events in New Zealand
Although many people are beginning to think about preparing for Christmas, warmer weather brings a greater variety of events and activities.
- Toast Martinborough in Martinborough (North Island) is an annual food and wine festival.
- Canterbury Agricultural Show in Christchurch is like a state fair in the United States. It is the largest agricultural event on the South Island and includes carnival rides, live entertainment, thoroughbred and standard breed races, and the New Zealand Cup, one of New Zealand’s oldest races held every year since 1865.
- Southern Traverse Adventure Race (South Island) is an exciting race for teams of three to five serious competitors through the toughest terrain in New Zealand. Endurance events cover high mountain ranges, lakes, and river crossings throughout Otago.
- Hawkes Bay Food and Wine Classic (North Island) is a culinary festival with wine dinners, a beer garden, entertainment, and special food events.
- The Timaru (South Island) Rose Festival, which takes place in late November or early December, is a summer celebration with public and private garden displays, rose-themed tours, floral art creations, activities children, music and theater.
- Waiheke Olive and Artisan Food Festival on Waiheke Island (North Island) is an opportunity to celebrate and taste the new Waiheke olive oil season, relaxing with jazz, food and wine in a spectacular garden at Waiheke’s Rangihoua Estate.
November Travel Tips
- It can be counterintuitive to come from somewhere in the middle of winter, but don’t forget to hydrate in New Zealand this month. Bring a refillable water bottle. You can drink the tap water in New Zealand, bring a bottle of water to be a more environmentally sustainable traveler.
- You may consider New Zealand expensive depending on the exchange rate. As New Zealand is an island country, it is somewhat isolated and products must be shipped by air or ship.
- November is usually a good time to go for a bike ride, but cyclists are not allowed on the highways and can be dangerous on the roads. It is also mandatory to wear a helmet.
- Tipping is not expected in New Zealand. Book restaurant tips for exceptional service, maybe 10 percent. Other service industries don’t expect tips.
- New Zealand is very safe. But if you need help in an emergency, dial 111 to connect with ambulance services, the fire department, or the police.
- New Zealand should be on your bucket list for incredible natural beauty, Maori culture, mild climate, and safety factor.
