Franz Josef Weather in December
With daytime temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and nighttime lows of 8°C (46°F), December in Franz Josef brings moderate temperatures during the day. It is also the wettest month of the year, so pack an umbrella.
Rainfall in Franz Josef in December
Franz Josef is in the rainy season in December, with rain on around 18 days and an average of 376 mm (15 in). The rain this month falls heavily when it arrives, so waterproofs are worth keeping handy.
Temperature in Franz Josef in December
In December, Franz Josef gets moderate temperatures, with highs of 15°C (59°F). Nights cool to around 8°C (46°F). Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. With overnight lows of 8°C (46°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.To explore more travel options, our weather planner can help you discover destinations worldwide.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Franz Josef's climate page.
Franz Josef Temperature in December
Min Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Max Temperature
15°C (59°F)
Chance of Rain
61%
Precipitation
376 mm (15 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Historical weather for Franz Josef in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Franz Josef spanning 21 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Franz Josef historical weather extremes in December
Based on 19 years of weather observations in Franz Josef between 2006 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- Franz Josef recorded its highest December temperature of 29°C (84°F) on December 21, 2023.
- On December 20, 2025, Franz Josef saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at 1°C (34°F).
- Franz Josef registered its coldest December night on December 21, 2025, with temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F).
- The wettest day in December Franz Josef was on December 27, 2010 with 176 mm (6.9 in) of precipitation.
Best Places in New Zealand in December
Find out more about the weather in New Zealand and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of New Zealand in December →
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What to Wear in Franz Josef in December
The weather can be unpredictable in December, so pack clothes you can easily mix and match. You could bring jeans, other long pants, and a few t-shirts. A light jacket or light sweater will be pleasant for the cooler moments. Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can.What To Do in Franz Josef in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Franz Josef's climate page.
See the full Franz Josef climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
