Expand
Contents
- The climate of Nelson
- The best time to visit Nelson
- The worst time to visit Nelson
- Spring weather in Nelson
- Summer weather in Nelson
- Autumn weather in Nelson
- Winter weather in Nelson
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The climate of Nelson
Located on New Zealand's South Island, Nelson experiences a Marine West Coast climate, according to the Köppen climate classification. This type of climate, marked as Cfb, characterizes warm summers and mild winters. Within this geographic position, several unique climatic patterns emerge throughout the year, making Nelson an area of considerable interest to weather buffs.
The average high temperature in Nelson ranges from 12.5°C (54.5°F) in July to 22.6°C (72.7°F) in February, while the average low temperature can vary from 1.9°C (35.4°F) in July to 13.3°C (55.9°F) in February. Relative humidity hovers between 74.2% in December and 90% in July. The monthly rainfall presents an intriguing pattern, peaking at 93mm (3.66") in June and falling to its lowest of 64mm (2.52") in February.
Nelson also demonstrates a distinct pattern in terms of the number of rainfall days, daylight hours, sea temperature, sunshine hours and UV index. The highest number of rainfall days occurs in September, reaching 9.9 days, and the lowest is in February with 5.8 days. The length of the day ranges from 9.2 hours in June to 15.1 hours in December. Sea temperatures are highest in February and March at 19°C (66.2°F) and falls to a cold 14°C (57.2°F) from July through October. Sunshine hours peak at 8.6 in January and dwindle to 4.8 in June, while the UV index varies between 1 in June and July to 11 in January.
The average high temperature in Nelson ranges from 12.5°C (54.5°F) in July to 22.6°C (72.7°F) in February, while the average low temperature can vary from 1.9°C (35.4°F) in July to 13.3°C (55.9°F) in February. Relative humidity hovers between 74.2% in December and 90% in July. The monthly rainfall presents an intriguing pattern, peaking at 93mm (3.66") in June and falling to its lowest of 64mm (2.52") in February.
Nelson also demonstrates a distinct pattern in terms of the number of rainfall days, daylight hours, sea temperature, sunshine hours and UV index. The highest number of rainfall days occurs in September, reaching 9.9 days, and the lowest is in February with 5.8 days. The length of the day ranges from 9.2 hours in June to 15.1 hours in December. Sea temperatures are highest in February and March at 19°C (66.2°F) and falls to a cold 14°C (57.2°F) from July through October. Sunshine hours peak at 8.6 in January and dwindle to 4.8 in June, while the UV index varies between 1 in June and July to 11 in January.
The best time to visit Nelson
Travelers planning a visit to Nelson may find the months from December to March to be the most congenial for outdoor activities. During this time, average high temperatures range from 18.9°C (66°F) to 22.6°C (72.7°F), offering warm and pleasant days for sightseeing and adventuring. In addition, these months provide the longest daylight hours—the day in December can last up to 15.1 hours, providing plenty of time for exploring. Sea temperatures during these months are comfortably warm, ranging from 15°C (59°F) in December to 19°C (66.2°F) in March—a perfect range for swimming and other water activities.
The worst time to visit Nelson
The months of June, July, and August might prove challenging for travelers due to colder weather and increased rainfall. In June, the temperature can dip to an average low of 2.7°C (36.9°F), while the rainfall is at its highest, reaching up to 93mm (3.66"). July brings the coldest month with a high of just 12.5°C (54.5°F), and an average low of 1.9°C (35.4°F). Moreover, daylight hours decrease to between 9.2 in June and 9.5 hours in July, limiting sightseeing opportunities.
Spring weather in Nelson
During springtime, which extends from September through November, temperatures in Nelson gradually rise from 15°C (59°F) to 18.9°C (66°F). However, this season also brings an increase in rainfall, rising from 85mm (3.35") in September to a peak of 87mm (3.43") in October. Relative humidity also rises during this period, reaching 79.7% in September and 73.7% in November. Despite the increased rainfall, the lengthening daylight hours from 11.8 hours in September to 14.4 hours in November offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Nelson
The summer months—December to February—are marked by warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and lower rainfall, making them ideal for travel. High temperatures range from 20.7°C (69.3°F) to 22.6°C (72.7°F), with low temperatures between 12°C (53.6°F) and 13.3°C (55.9°F). Despite being the warmest months, relative humidity remains balanced at 74.2% in December and increases to 78.5% in February. Rainfall is lowest in February at 64mm (2.52"), and the shining sun offers up to 8.6 hours of sunshine in January and 7.8 hours in February.
Autumn weather in Nelson
Nelson's autumn—March through May—sees a gradual decrease in temperature, from 21°C (69.8°F) in March to 15.6°C (60.1°F) in May. The rainfall steadily increases, starting from 71mm (2.8") in March and surging to 82mm (3.23") in May. Relative humidity ascends during this period, rising from 79.6% in March to 87.8% in May. Daylight hours recede from 12.4 hours in March to 9.8 hours in May.
Winter weather in Nelson
The winter months—June through August—are characterized by cooler temperatures and higher rainfall. The average high temperature drops to 12.5°C (54.5°F) in July, while the average low temperature hits 1.9°C (35.4°F) in the same month. Relative humidity approaches its yearly peak in July at 90%. Rain levels also peak during this season with June recording the highest rainfall at 93mm (3.66"). Daylight hours reach their minimum in June at 9.2 hours and gradually increase to 10.5 hours in August. The sun shines for around 5 hours per day during these winter months, giving limited brightness to the chilly days.
Weather in January
Nelson, New Zealand experiences a moderately warm January, with a pleasant combination of heat and humidity. With daily high temperatures averaging at 22.4°C (72.3°F), it is warmer than the subsequent month but cooler than the last. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In February, the inhabitants of this New Zealand city continue to enjoy high temperatures. With daily lows averaging at 13.3°C (55.9°F), Nelson experiences its second hottest month, trailing just behind January. Rainfall is less likely in February, being the second driest month of the year, while sunshine persists. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March begins the transitional phase towards autumn in Nelson. Displaying an average daily high temperature of 21°C (69.8°F), the climate becomes marginally cooler in comparison with February. This New Zealand city experiences a slight increase in humidity, uplifting the city's freshness. Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in April marks a noticeable switch from summer to autumn. Temperatures drop more significantly in April, with the city's average daily high temperature dropping to 18.1°C (64.6°F). As rainfall numbers rise, the city resonates with the rhythm of persistent showers cultivating the city's flora. Weather in April »
Weather in May
In May, Nelson leafs through its chilliest chapter of the year. Experiencing an average low of 5.5°C (41.9°F), the city wears a cooler look, signalling the onset of the New Zealand winter. Changing leaves add a beautiful contrast to the cityscape, enhanced by the increasing rainfall. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June greets Nelson with an even colder canvas, as winter makes its presence more formidable. The sea temperature cools down considerably, measuring at an average of 15°C (59°F). Heaters and warm clothing become more essential, as the chilly winds pervade the city. Weather in June »
Weather in July
In July, Nelson endures the pinnacle of its cold season. The average low temperature sinks further to 1.9°C (35.4°F), reflecting the city's coldest month. Simultaneously, the city encounters a leap in humidity levels, adding a damp tone to the chill. Weather in July »
Weather in August
As Nelson navigates through August, it begins to bid farewell to winter, on cue with moderately rising temperatures. The city records rainy days for the majority of the month (8.6), bringing greater shifts in the city's appearance. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September, in Nelson, is a month that ushers in spring, welcomed by a gentle climb in the mercury levels. The city receives 85mm (3.35") of rainfall, saturating the fertile soils of this New Zealand town. Nelson, in September, transforms into an artist's palette of vivid colours, teeming with new life. Weather in September »
Weather in October
In October, the city of Nelson warms up further, signaling a full swing into the spring season. A recorded humidity of 76.9% contributes to the mild and bearable climate. October is a period when the city resonates with the buzz of activity, serenaded by longer daylight hours. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Nelson introduces rising temperature averages, paving the way to summer. One of November's distinguishing weather features includes an average UV index of 8, indicating stronger sun protection measures. The city bathes under the warm sun, magnifying the glory of the New Zealand summer. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December arrives in Nelson as the herald of summer, carrying warmer temperatures and an active life. The weather in Nelson in December receives a significant amount of rainfall, adding vitality to the city's lush landscapes. The reinvented landscapes allure both residents and visitors to partake in outdoor festivities. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain in Nelson?
Throughout the year, in Nelson, there are 93.4 rainfall days, and 960mm (37.8") of precipitation is accumulated.
What month has the most sunshine in Nelson?
With an average of 8.6h of sunshine, January has the most sunshine of the year in Nelson.
When is the highest UV index in Nelson?
January is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 11.
What part of the year is the hottest in Nelson?
February is the month when Nelson sees the average highest temperatures, with a high of 22.6°C (72.7°F) and a low of 13.3°C (55.9°F).
What is the driest month in Nelson?
February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 5.8 days and accumulates 64mm (2.52") of precipitation.
When is the sea warmest in Nelson?
The months with the warmest seawater in Nelson are February and March, with an average sea temperature of 19°C (66.2°F).
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Nelson?
On Sunday, 07. April 2024, at 3:00 am, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from NZDT to NZST. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 29. September 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from NZST to NZDT.
What is the wettest month in Nelson?
June is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 8.2 days and accumulates 93mm (3.66") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Nelson?
June has the shortest days of the year in Nelson, with an average of 9h and 12min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Nelson?
June has the least sunshine of the year in Nelson, with an average of 4.8h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Nelson?
The months with the lowest UV index in Nelson, New Zealand, are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
What is the coldest time of year in Nelson?
July tends to be the coldest month, with temperatures averaging a daily high of 12.5°C (54.5°F) and a low of 1.9°C (35.4°F).
What is the most humid month in Nelson?
With an average relative humidity of 90%, July is the most humid month.
When is the sea coldest in Nelson?
The months with the coldest seawater in Nelson, New Zealand, are July through October, with an average sea temperature of 14°C (57.2°F).
What is the least humid month in Nelson?
With an average relative humidity of 73.7%, November is the least humid month.
When are the longest days in Nelson?
With an average of 15h and 6min of daylight, December has the longest days of the year in Nelson, New Zealand.
Average temperature
Nelson, New Zealand
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (22.6°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (12.5°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (13.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (1.9°C).
Average humidity
Nelson, New Zealand
- Average humidity in January:
74.4% - Average humidity in February:
78.5% - Average humidity in March:
79.6% - Average humidity in April:
83% - Average humidity in May:
87.8% - Average humidity in June:
89.6%
The month with the highest relative humidity is July (90%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is November (73.7%).
Average rainfall
Nelson, New Zealand
- Average rainfall in January:
76.5mm - Average rainfall in February:
63.5mm - Average rainfall in March:
70.8mm - Average rainfall in April:
80.9mm - Average rainfall in May:
82mm - Average rainfall in June:
92.7mm
- Average rainfall in July:
77.6mm - Average rainfall in August:
81.9mm - Average rainfall in September:
85.1mm - Average rainfall in October:
87.2mm - Average rainfall in November:
78.3mm - Average rainfall in December:
83.6mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (92.7mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (63.5mm).
Average rainfall days
Nelson, New Zealand
- Average rainfall days in January:
6.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
5.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
6.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
6.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
7.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
8.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
7.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
8.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
9.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
7.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
8.6 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is September (9.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (5.8 days).
Average sea temperature
Nelson, New Zealand
The best months for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) are February and March (19°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are July, August, September and October (14°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Nelson, New Zealand
- Average daylight in January:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in May:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
9h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
9h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
15h and 1min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 15h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 9h and 12min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in May:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
4h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 8h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 4h and 48min).
Average UV index
Nelson, New Zealand
The month with the highest UV index is January (UV index 11).
The months with the lowest UV index are June and July (UV index 1).
Nelson, New Zealand
Weather forecast for your location
1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location
2. Allow the app to use your location
