Lake Tekapo Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall

Climate overview of Lake Tekapo

The climate in Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 19°C (66°F) in February to 5°C (41°F) in July.

The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1307 mm (51 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has pleasant summers and cold winters. October is the wettest month.

Lake Tekapo Weather by Month

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

January

19°C (66°F)View January → February

19°C (66°F)View February → March

17°C (63°F)View March → April

14°C (57°F)View April → May

10°C (50°F)View May → June

6°C (43°F)View June → July

5°C (41°F)View July → August

7°C (45°F)View August → September

9°C (48°F)View September → This monthOctober

12°C (54°F)View October → November

14°C (57°F)View November → December

17°C (63°F)View December →

Monthly Temperature in Lake Tekapo

In Lake Tekapo, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in February to a chilly 5°C (41°F) in July.

Nighttime temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) in February to -2°C (28°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

More Temperature details →

Rainfall in Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1307 mm (51 in) of precipitation annually. The wettest period in Lake Tekapo occurs in October, which receives around 126 mm (5 in) of precipitation. During the driest month, March, Lake Tekapo experiences moderate rainfall, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate. For more details, please visit our Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo

The most favourable weather available in Lake Tekapo usually occurs in January, February and March. Conditions are generally most challenging in May, June, July, August, September and October.

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

Jan good Feb good Mar good Apr mixed May wet Jun wet Jul cold Aug wet Sep wet Oct wet Nov mixed Dec mixed

Best overall: January, February and March
Warmest weather: January and February
Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters
Coldest conditions: July, with freezing nights around -2°C (28°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Lake Tekapo

What is the best time to visit Lake Tekapo?

January, February and March typically offer the most optimal weather in Lake Tekapo. In contrast, May, June, July, August, September and October tend to have less optimal conditions. Lake Tekapo has pleasant summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Lake Tekapo?

Daytime highs range from 5°C (41°F) in July to 19°C (66°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from -2°C (28°F) to 9°C (48°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.