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.
Palmerston North Weather in March
March in Palmerston North brings pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs of 21°C (70°F) and nights around 12°C (54°F). Rainfall is at its lowest this month, making it one of the more reliable months to be outdoors.
Rainfall in Palmerston North in March
With the lowest rainfall figures of the year, conditions are ideal for exploring the outdoors. Typically, about 11 days will experience rainfall, with an average of 72 mm (2.8 in) for the month. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.
Temperature in Palmerston North in March
March is a excellent month in Palmerston North, with 21°C (70°F) during the day and 12°C (54°F) at night. Experience the summer season in March. Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. At 12°C (54°F) overnight, it can feel quite a bit cooler after dark. Worth packing something warmer for evenings, but the cooler temperatures are ideal for sleeping.
Sunshine in Palmerston North in March
The city usually sees around 172 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.If you're inclined towards comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, March is a good time to visit Palmerston North.
Palmerston North Temperature in March
Min Temperature
12°C (54°F)
Max Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
72 mm (2.8 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
81%
Sunshine
172 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Palmerston North Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Palmerston North - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
49-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Palmerston North typically stay consistent throughout March, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 11°C (52°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 Palmerston North in March
Browse day-by-day weather records for Palmerston North spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Palmerston North historical weather extremes in March
Based on 33 years of weather observations (1993-2026), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Palmerston North.
- On March 13, 2026, temperatures climbed to 29°C (84°F), marking the warmest March day on record.
- Palmerston North experienced its chilliest March day on March 22, 1993, reaching only 7°C (45°F).
- Palmerston North registered its coldest March night on March 31, 2001, with temperatures dropping to 1°C (34°F).
- Peak precipitation in March occurred on March 6, 2011, when 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation was measured.
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 Palmerston North in March
Comfortable temperatures call for an easy wardrobe in March. Pack summer basics like t-shirts and shorts, but include a light jacket for cooler moments. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month
What To Do in Palmerston North in March
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming6/10 -
Cycling9/10 -
Walking9/10 -
Camping8/10 -
Outdoor sports9/10
Palmerston North 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Palmerston North
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Palmerston North climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Popular in March
Where to go in March - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Paihia
23°C (73°F) Auckland
23°C (73°F) Rotorua
21°C (70°F) Taupo20°C (68°F) Christchurch21°C (70°F) Nelson20°C (68°F) Wellington18°C (64°F) Queenstown15°C (59°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
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