Christchurch

Canterbury Weather & Climate: New Zealand

Climate by month across Canterbury, New Zealand, average temperatures, rainfall and the best time to visit.

Climate overview of Canterbury

Canterbury in New Zealand sees its peak temperatures in February (23°C (73°F)) and its coolest in July (11°C (52°F)). For a full breakdown of what to expect throughout the year, we've put together a climate overview based on data from Christchurch, the region's most visited city. For more detailed climate information about other cities in the area, please see the section beneath the map further down the page.

The weather in Canterbury during January, February, March and December is comfortably warm, with average temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) to 23°C (73°F).

When it comes to rainfall, Canterbury maintains fairly consistent rainfall patterns throughout the year, with June seeing 64 mm (2.5 in) and March receiving 47 mm (1.9 in).

For those seeking sunshine, January usually has the brightest skies, making it an excellent time for exploring the region.

Explore Canterbury by month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Canterbury — and find the best time to visit. (based on Christchurch)

Popular cities by month

Compare cities per month. Toggle cities on/off.

Christchurch Kaikoura Hanmer Springs Lake Tekapo Akaroa Timaru
Day temperature (°C)
Monthly rainfall (mm)
Monthly sunshine (hours)

Climate map of Canterbury

Average daily temperature, monthly rainfall & sunshine hours across cities.

Avg day temp (°C)
32°

Compare popular cities

Average daytime and nighttime temperatures, yearly rainfall and sunshine.

Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 23°C (73°F) 3°C (37°F) 13°C (55°F) 686 mm (27 in) 2,129 hours
Kaikoura 10°C (50°F) 20°C (68°F) 3°C (37°F) 13°C (55°F) 1024 mm (40 in)
Hanmer Springs 7°C (45°F) 20°C (68°F) -1°C (30°F) 9°C (48°F) 1208 mm (48 in)
Lake Tekapo 5°C (41°F) 19°C (66°F) -2°C (28°F) 9°C (48°F) 1307 mm (51 in)
Akaroa 11°C (52°F) 20°C (68°F) 6°C (43°F) 14°C (57°F) 665 mm (26 in) 2,129 hours
Timaru 11°C (52°F) 20°C (68°F) 2°C (36°F) 12°C (54°F) 836 mm (33 in) 1,947 hours

Places in Canterbury, New Zealand

Select a city to see its average temperature, precipitation and hours of sunshine over the year.

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Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.