The islands of New Zealand enjoy a very moderate climate which is influenced by the seas around them as well as the numerous mountains. Throughout the islands there are high levels of rainfall although there is also plenty of sunshine and extreme temperatures are rare. Those who live there are prepared for sudden changes in weather as different weather fronts move in very quickly and temperatures can change suddenly.

The seasons in New Zealand are the opposite of those in the northern hemisphere. Spring is from September to October. Summer runs from December to February and has long hot days and mild nights. Autumn is from March to May and temperatures during the day are only a little cooler than they are in the summer. Winter is from June to August and some parts will have less rainfall than in the summer. Temperatures are lower the further south you go in the country and while the winters may be much cooler in the south the weather is generally mild all year round.

In the Bay of Islands region the average summer temperature is around 20°C while the average winter temperature is around 10°C. In Auckland the average summer temperature is around 18°C and the winter temperature is around 12°C. In Rotorua the average summer temperature is 18°C and in winter is around 9°C. In Wellington the average summer temperature is 17°C and the average winter temperature is 9°C. In Christchurch the average summer temperature is 17°C and the winter temperature is an average of 8°C. In Queenstown the average summer temperature is 16°C and the average winter temperature is 6°C. It is not unheard of for various regions to experience freezing temperatures in winter, although this is more likely the further south you travel. As a general rule the weather is reasonably mild and the winters are not harsh.

The sunniest areas of the country receive more than 2000 hours of sunshine each year. These include Bay of Plenty, Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay. Dunedin has an average of 1600 hours of sunshine each year. New Zealand has a system of daylight saving so in summer it can still be daylight until 9pm. There is not a great deal of air pollution in New Zealand so it is advised to use sunscreen and other protection against the strong UV rays. There is also a reasonable amount of sun during the winter months although there is also the higher risk of rain.

New Zealand has high levels of rainfall and these are consistent throughout the year. Depending upon the region you are in the levels can be anything from 640mm each year to 1500mm. Some areas can experience up to 8000mm of rain during the year. There is usually a dry period during the summer months but there is always a risk of rain in most areas.

During the summer months it is recommended that you have a light sweater or jacket with you as the weather can suddenly turn much cooler. Rain should be expected so a waterproof jacket is a good idea. In winter, warm clothing is recommended as the temperatures are much cooler and there is a risk of frost during clear nights.

Snow occurs mainly in the mountainous regions of the country and is rarely seen by the coast but there is occasionally snow in the southern regions of the South Island during winter. In some areas of the country skiing is a popular pastime in the winter.

New Zealand experiences frequent earthquakes due to the fact that the country is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire. An average of 20,000 earthquakes is recorded each year although the vast majority are too weak to be felt. Around 200 earthquakes are much stronger and as a result New Zealand has implemented building regulations which are designed to cope with this. Tsunamis are a risk due to the earthquakes although they are rarely a serious threat to life.

Strong storms occur frequently in New Zealand and these include heavy rainfall and strong winds. Hurricanes are a risk and this is throughout the country. Tropical cyclones occur in New Zealand every few years and can cause severe damage to property.