Christchurch Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Christchurch.

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Water temp

Climate overview of Christchurch

Christchurch has a temperate maritime climate with dry warm summers. The maximum average temperatures is 23°C (73°F) in January, and 11°C (52°F) in July. In winter it is common for the temperature to fall below 0°C (32°F) at night.

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.

January

22°C (72°F)View January → February

23°C (73°F)View February → March

21°C (70°F)View March → April

18°C (64°F)View April → May

15°C (59°F)View May → June

12°C (54°F)View June → July

12°C (54°F)View July → August

13°C (55°F)View August → September

15°C (59°F)View September → This monthOctober

17°C (63°F)View October → November

19°C (66°F)View November → December

21°C (70°F)View December →

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

More Temperature details →

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

More Rainfall details →

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

More Sunshine details →

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

More Water Temperature details →

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

More Humidity details →

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)

More Wind Speed details →

Best Time to Visit Christchurch

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Christchurch in January, February, March and December. Conditions are usually least favourable in June, July and August.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

Jan excellent Feb excellent Mar excellent Apr very good May good Jun mixed Jul mixed Aug mixed Sep good Oct good Nov very good Dec excellent

Best overall: January, February, March and December
Warmest weather: January and February
Most sunshine: January
Warmest water temperature: January and February, although the water may still feel cool.
Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters

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. Christchurch has warm summers and cold winters.

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.