Christchurch Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Christchurch.
Climate overview of Christchurch
There are on average 70 days of ground frost per year. Snow falls occur on average once or twice a year in the hill suburbs and about once or twice every two years on the plain. With an average of 2080 Christchurch can be named as a super sunny destination. Just like in the rest of New Zealand it is pretty windy all year round in Christchurch.
Christchurch Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Christchurch — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Christchurch
In Christchurch, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in February. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 12°C (54°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 13°C (55°F) in February to 3°C (37°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Christchurch
Generally, Christchurch receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 686 mm (27 in) annually. Despite minor fluctuations, Christchurch enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In June, you can expect around 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation, while in March, Christchurch receives about 48 mm (1.9 in). For more details, please visit our Christchurch Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Christchurch
Christchurch can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of January under a blue sky, with approximately 7.9 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in June, with only 3.9 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Christchurch
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 10°C (50°F) in June to 16°C (61°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Christchurch by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Christchurch.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 88%. In November, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 71%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Christchurch
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) to 4 m/s (8 knots). It is lower in March, April, May, June, July, August and September and higher in January, February, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Christchurch
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Christchurch
What is the best time to visit Christchurch?
January, February, March and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Christchurch. In contrast, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Christchurch?
Daytime highs range from 12°C (54°F) in July to 23°C (73°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 13°C (55°F).
How much rain does Christchurch get?
Annual rainfall is around 686 mm (27 in). June is the wettest month with 64 mm (2.5 in), while March is the driest with 48 mm (1.9 in).
How sunny is Christchurch?
Christchurch receives around 2,129 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 238 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 117 hours. Overall, Christchurch enjoys abundant sunshine.
Christchurch 3-Day Forecast
Christchurch 3-Day Forecast
Christchurch on the map
Christchurch is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Auckland
15°C (59°F) Paihia16°C (61°F) Wellington13°C (55°F) Rotorua13°C (55°F) Christchurch12°C (54°F) Nelson12°C (54°F) Taupo11°C (52°F) Queenstown3°C (37°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
White-water sledge and raft in Rotorua
We recommend to white-water sledge and raft in Rotorua in summer (January, February) when the Glacier melt fills the rivers. This is the best time.