Kaikoura Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall

Climate overview of Kaikoura

Kaikoura, in New Zealand's Canterbury region, fluctuates between pleasant highs and cold lows throughout the year. The town is known for getting high rainfall across all seasons, keeping the coastal area green. Kaikoura is a coastal town which sits between mountains and ocean where people come to see sperm whales, dolphins, and seals on boat tours right from the shore. Let's explore the climate details to provide you with a complete overview on when to visit.

Kaikoura Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kaikoura - and find the best time to visit.

January

20°C (68°F)View January → February

20°C (68°F)View February → March

19°C (66°F)View March → April

16°C (61°F)View April → May

14°C (57°F)View May → June

11°C (52°F)View June → July

10°C (50°F)View July → August

11°C (52°F)View August → September

13°C (55°F)View September → This monthOctober

15°C (59°F)View October → November

17°C (63°F)View November → December

19°C (66°F)View December →

Monthly Temperature in Kaikoura

The climate in Kaikoura experiences moderate temperature changes, with mild shifts between seasons. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 20°C (68°F) in February to a chilly 10°C (50°F) in the coolest month, July.

Nights vary from 13°C (55°F) in February to around 3°C (37°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

More Temperature details →

Rainfall in Kaikoura

Kaikoura experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1024 mm (40 in) of precipitation annually. Precipitation levels in Kaikoura remain relatively steady throughout the year. June has the most rain, with 101 mm (4 in) over 10 days. In the driest month May, this drops slightly to 71 mm (2.8 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our Kaikoura 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 →

Best Time to Visit Kaikoura

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Kaikoura is usually found in January and February. Conditions are generally least comfortable in June and July.

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 very good Apr good May good Jun wet Jul cold Aug mixed Sep mixed Oct good Nov good Dec very good

Best overall: January and February
Warmest weather: January and February
Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kaikoura

What is the best time to visit Kaikoura?

January and February typically offer the most optimal weather in Kaikoura. In contrast, June and July tend to have less optimal conditions. Kaikoura has pleasant summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Kaikoura?

Daytime highs range from 10°C (50°F) in July to 20°C (68°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 13°C (55°F).