Queenstown Weather in December
December in Queenstown averages 15°C (59°F) during the day and 6°C (43°F) at night. Quite a bit of rainfall is typical this month, with around 149 mm (5.9 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in Queenstown in December
Rain is expected on roughly 12 days, totalling around 149 mm (5.9 in) for the month. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.
Temperature in Queenstown in December
In December, Queenstown sees moderate temperatures, with highs of 15°C (59°F). Nights drop to around 6°C (43°F). During December, you'll experience the summer season. Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. At 6°C (43°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions.
Sunshine in Queenstown in December
Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 223 hours of sunshine. This makes it a pleasant time to visit Queenstown.If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, December is one of the best months to visit Queenstown.
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 Queenstown's climate page.
Queenstown Temperature in December
Min Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Max Temperature
15°C (59°F)
Chance of Rain
41%
Precipitation
149 mm (5.9 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
69%
Sunshine
223 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
31-year average (1995-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Queenstown typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 15°C (59°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 9°C (48°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
31-year average (1995-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for Queenstown in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Queenstown spanning 32 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Queenstown historical weather extremes in December
Based on 28 years of weather observations (1997-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Queenstown.
- The hottest December day on record in Queenstown reached 30°C (86°F) (December 25, 2012).
- Queenstown experienced its chilliest December day on December 18, 2004, reaching only 8°C (46°F).
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in December was -3°C (27°F) (December 1, 2006).
- The wettest day in December Queenstown was on December 28, 2010 with 40 mm (1.6 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 →
perfect weather
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What to Wear in Queenstown in December
The weather can swing between comfortable and chilly in December, so flexibility is key. Pack a variety of tops, at least one warm layer, and both shorts and long pants. This gives you options no matter what the day brings. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.What To Do in Queenstown 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 Queenstown's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Queenstown climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
