Nelson
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Nelson Weather in March

During March, Nelson experiences pleasant daytime temperatures of 20°C (68°F) and cooler nights around 12°C (54°F). As part of the summer season, expect quite a bit of rainfall. Around 99 mm (3.9 in) is typical.

Rainfall in Nelson in March

Historically, the month has about 10 days of rain, averaging 99 mm (3.9 in) in total. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.

Temperature in Nelson in March

The temperature in Nelson in March is excellent. Daytime highs reach 20°C (68°F), with nights dropping to 12°C (54°F). March is part of the summer season. Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. Nights cool down to 12°C (54°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Nelson in March

The month enjoys around 230 hours of sunshine, creating mostly sunny days with good weather conditions.

If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, March is one of the best months to visit Nelson.

Nelson Temperature in March

Min Temperature
12°C (54°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Chance of Rain
33%
Precipitation
99 mm (3.9 in)
Rainy days
10 days
Humidity
80%
Sunshine
230 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Nelson Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

49-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Nelson typically stay consistent throughout March, with daily highs averaging around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 14°C (57°F).

Average temperatures in March

Daily Historical Precipitation

49-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in March

Historical weather records for Nelson in March

Browse day-by-day weather records for Nelson spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Nelson historical weather extremes in March

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Nelson from 1994 through 2026.

  • The hottest March day on record in Nelson reached 28°C (82°F) (March 6, 2016).
  • Nelson experienced its chilliest March day on March 14, 2007, reaching only 14°C (57°F).
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to 5°C (41°F) on March 16, 2024, marking the coldest March night on record.

Best Places in New Zealand in March

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 March →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Nelson in March

Pleasant temperatures in March mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Nelson in March

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Nelson 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Nelson

Popular in March

Where to go in March - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

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