What’s the Weather Like in Wellington?

Wellington is one of the most picturesque cities in New Zealand and its stunning views draw visitors from all around the world. With its unique combination of city, sea, and hills, plenty of exciting activities awaits those who want to explore the area. But, for all its natural beauty, the weather in this rugged region, can be somewhat unpredictable. So, what can you expect from Wellington’s climate?

Climate Overview of Wellington

Wellington has a typically maritime climate, with mild temperatures all year round. Although no strict definition of a Mediterranean climate exists, Wellington generally meets the criteria of a temperate subtropical climate, with relatively warm summers and mild winters. On average, temperatures range around 18-20°C in summer and 10-14°C in winter, with more extreme temperatures at higher altitudes. The city’s hilly geography can also have an effect on local weather patterns, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on elevation. Rainfall is also higher in Wellington than most other New Zealand cities, and you can expect to get significant rain or drizzle as many as 8 days out of every 10!

The Four Seasons of Wellington

Spring (September – November)

The transition from winter to summer is one of the most beautiful times of year – and in Wellington, it’s no different. As winter gradually abates, temperatures slowly start to rise and the days become longer and brighter. While the chance of rain is still significant, long warm periods are possible along with bursts of sunshine. The best thing about spring is that you can enjoy warmer days and a refreshing chill in the air at night. The average daily temperature during this period peaks at around 17-18°C but temperatures tend to fluctuate quite significantly throughout the day. To make the most of this season, it’s best to wear layers and prepare for cooler periods when required.

Summer (December – February)

The hot days of summer are an ideal time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. With an average temperature of 18-20°C (even up to 21-22°C on warmer days), it’s a comfortable time for swimming, playing sports, and sightseeing. However, the city can become quite humid during this period so make sure to drink plenty of water in order to remain hydrated throughout the day. Also keep in mind that it can become quite windy in Wellington during summer and some days can reach wind speed rates up to 80km/h! So be sure to always check weather updates before heading outside.

Autumn (March-May)

As autumn begins and temperatures start to drop again, Wellington gives off a spectacular burst of colour. Red, yellow and orange hues lit up the city skyline during this time, drawing in tourists from around the globe all looking to capture that perfect photo. The cooler air also means that a jacket or coat may be needed during this period – especially if you plan on staying outside for a while. Average temperatures during autumn tend to be around 12-14°C during the day but the evenings can become quite chilly at times and even dip below 10°C on some occasions. Also remember that rainfall remains a constant throughout autumn so it’s best to have a raincoat or umbrella handy until summer returns again.

Winter (June – August)

Winter in Wellington can be quite unpredictable as temperatures can remain stagnant for long periods or even spike suddenly for a few days. Snowfall is rare although uncomfortable cold fronts may pass through the area from time to time. Average temperatures range from 10-14°C although 0-5°C is also possible at times depending on location and elevation. As with any part of New Zealand, Wellington’s terrain makes winter a great time for outdoor activities such as skiing or snowboarding if conditions permit. However like all other seasons, it pays to always keep an eye on the weather especially since acid rain and thick fog are also common occurrences throughout wintertime.

In Conclusion

The weather in Wellington is unpredictable and fluctuates often throughout the year. But don’t let this discourage you from visiting one of the most beautiful parts of New Zealand. Whether you want to enjoy the area for sightseeing or as part of your next holiday destination, understanding Wellington’s unique climate will help ensure you make the most out of your stay here. If you want to get more information about what type of weather to expect when visiting, NIWA provides the latest regional forecasts for free each day!