Wanaka Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall Sunshine

Climate overview of Wanaka

Wanaka, in New Zealand's Otago region, swings from pleasant summers to cold winters with significant seasonal changes. The area gets plenty of rain and snow throughout the year, depending on the season. This lake town attracts visitors with its beautiful mountain views and serves as an acces point to both summer hiking trails and winter ski fields at Treble Cone and Cardrona. Let's explore the climate details to provide you with a complete overview on when to visit.

Wanaka Weather by Month

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

January

18°C (64°F)View January → February

18°C (64°F)View February → March

16°C (61°F)View March → April

13°C (55°F)View April → May

9°C (48°F)View May → June

5°C (41°F)View June → July

4°C (39°F)View July → August

5°C (41°F)View August → September

8°C (46°F)View September → This monthOctober

11°C (52°F)View October → November

14°C (57°F)View November → December

16°C (61°F)View December →

Monthly Temperature in Wanaka

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from pleasant to chilly in Wanaka. Average daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 18°C (64°F) in February. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 4°C (39°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 8°C (46°F) in February to -3°C (27°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

More Temperature details →

Rainfall in Wanaka

Wanaka has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1478 mm (58 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Despite minor fluctuations, Wanaka enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In December, you can expect around 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation, while in July, Wanaka receives about 104 mm (4.1 in). For more details, please visit our Wanaka Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

The average number of days each month with precipitation

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Sunshine Hours in Wanaka

Wanaka can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of January under a blue sky, with approximately 7.7 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in June, with only 4.0 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

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Best Time to Visit Wanaka

For the most comfortable conditions available during the year, consider visiting Wanaka in January and February. Conditions are usually least comfortable in April, 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 mixed Apr wet May wet Jun wet Jul cold Aug wet Sep wet Oct wet Nov mixed Dec mixed

Best overall: January and February
Warmest weather: January and February
Most sunshine: January
Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters
Coldest conditions: July, with freezing nights around -3°C (27°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Wanaka

What is the best time to visit Wanaka?

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

What temperatures can I expect in Wanaka?

Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in July to 18°C (64°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from -3°C (27°F) to 8°C (46°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Wanaka get?

Annual rainfall is around 1478 mm (58 in). December is the wettest month with 147 mm (5.8 in), while July is the driest with 104 mm (4.1 in).

How sunny is Wanaka?

Wanaka receives around 2,092 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 231 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 120 hours. Overall, Wanaka enjoys abundant sunshine.