Te Anau Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Te Anau.
Climate overview of Te Anau
Temperatures in Te Anau, Southland, New Zealand, shift moderately through the seasons. The warmest month is January at 17°C (63°F), and the coolest is July at 7°C (45°F).
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 2126 mm (84 in) annually. October is the wettest month. It has a distinct rainy season from September to January, with mild summers and cold winters.
Te Anau Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Te Anau - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Te Anau
In Te Anau, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 17°C (63°F) in January to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in the coolest month, July.
Nights vary from 8°C (46°F) in January to around 0°C (32°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Te Anau
Te Anau has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 2126 mm (84 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Precipitation levels in Te Anau remain relatively steady throughout the year. October has the most rain, with 218 mm (8.6 in) over 15 days. In the driest month July, this drops slightly to 149 mm (5.9 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our Te Anau Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Best Time to Visit Te Anau
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: February and March
- Warmest weather: January, February and December
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from September to January, with mild summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: July, with freezing nights around 0°C (32°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Te Anau
What is the best time to visit Te Anau?
February and March typically offer the most optimal weather in Te Anau. In contrast, January, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Te Anau has a distinct rainy season from September to January, with mild summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Te Anau?
Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in July to 17°C (63°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 0°C (32°F) to 8°C (46°F).
How much rain does Te Anau get?
Annual rainfall is around 2126 mm (84 in). October is the wettest month with 218 mm (8.6 in), while July is the driest with 149 mm (5.9 in).
Te Anau 3-Day Forecast
Te Anau on the map
Te Anau is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Paihia
16°C (61°F) Auckland
16°C (61°F) Rotorua13°C (55°F) Christchurch
13°C (55°F) Wellington13°C (55°F) Nelson12°C (54°F) Taupo12°C (54°F) Queenstown4°C (39°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.