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Contents
- The climate of Queenstown
- The best time to visit Queenstown
- The worst time to visit Queenstown
- Spring weather in Queenstown
- Summer weather in Queenstown
- Autumn weather in Queenstown
- Winter weather in Queenstown
- 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 pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand, falls under the Cfc Köppen climate classification, denoting a marine west coast climate with a cool summer. Situated in the lower hemisphere, diverse weather patterns grace this location, marked by the ever-changing seasons. Weather conditions fluctuate throughout the year, with temperature highs oscillating between 3.7°C (38.7°F) in July and 17°C (62.6°F) in February. Interestingly, temperature lows also experience a similar trend as they vary from minus 2.4°C (36.3°F) in July to 6.4°C (43.5°F) in January.
A crucial aspect of Queenstown's climate is its relative humidity, which remains consistently high between 76% in January and December to 90% in July. This is in concurrence with its rain pattern. The town sees monthly average rainfall from 29mm (1.14") in June up to 71mm (2.8") in December, indicating a significant late-year rain frequency. Correspondingly, the average number of rainy days also surge in December to approximately 18.3 days.
In contrast, winter months bring a fair share of snow, peaking in July at 51mm (2.01") with an average of 3.8 days of snowfall. The number of daylight hours unsurprisingly increases from winter to summer, with a precipitous change from 8.8 hours in June to 15.5 hours in December.
A crucial aspect of Queenstown's climate is its relative humidity, which remains consistently high between 76% in January and December to 90% in July. This is in concurrence with its rain pattern. The town sees monthly average rainfall from 29mm (1.14") in June up to 71mm (2.8") in December, indicating a significant late-year rain frequency. Correspondingly, the average number of rainy days also surge in December to approximately 18.3 days.
In contrast, winter months bring a fair share of snow, peaking in July at 51mm (2.01") with an average of 3.8 days of snowfall. The number of daylight hours unsurprisingly increases from winter to summer, with a precipitous change from 8.8 hours in June to 15.5 hours in December.
The best time to visit Queenstown
For outdoor enthusiasts drawn to Queenstown's notable attractions and activities, the warmer months present an optimal period to visit. From December to February, temperatures are at their peak, ranging from 15.6°C (60.1°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). Alongside this, the town basks in the most extended daylight hours, stretching up to 15.5 hours in December. Enhanced visibility, reaching 9km (5.6mi), complements the warmer temperatures during these months, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.
Although not the driest phase of the year, the lower frequency of rain in the summer, with lowest rainfall recorded at 36mm (1.42") in September, offers favorable conditions for outdoor pursuits. The craving for sun gets thoroughly satiated, with Queenstown getting its maximum sunshine hours in December.
Although not the driest phase of the year, the lower frequency of rain in the summer, with lowest rainfall recorded at 36mm (1.42") in September, offers favorable conditions for outdoor pursuits. The craving for sun gets thoroughly satiated, with Queenstown getting its maximum sunshine hours in December.
The worst time to visit Queenstown
Winter months, specifically from May to August, can be challenging periods to navigate Queenstown due to lower temperatures and prevalent snowfall. With the mercury plummeting to as low as minus 2.4°C (36.3°F) in July and consistent snowfall across these months, the weather conditions might not be ideal for everyone. The diminished visibility can further limit activities, making this period less attractive for visitors.
While a thicker blanket of clouds, reaching 50% in July, marks this season, the relative humidity hovers at 89% in June and 90% in July. Travelers with a dislike for high humidity and snowy climate should reconsider their plans to visit Queenstown during these months.
While a thicker blanket of clouds, reaching 50% in July, marks this season, the relative humidity hovers at 89% in June and 90% in July. Travelers with a dislike for high humidity and snowy climate should reconsider their plans to visit Queenstown during these months.
Spring weather in Queenstown
Spring in Queenstown, lasting from September to November, is a time of change. Temperatures begin to rise, moving from 7.4°C (45.3°F) in September to 15.6°C (60.1°F) in November. Correspondingly, the cold nights also start warming up, with lows improving from minus 0.7°C (33.3°F) in September to 5.5°C (41.9°F) in November.
Rainfall totals in these months stay relatively moderate, notably a mere 36mm (1.42") in September, making Spring a balanced time to visit. Sunshine hours incrementally progress from 7.7 hours in September to 11 hours in December, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities.
Rainfall totals in these months stay relatively moderate, notably a mere 36mm (1.42") in September, making Spring a balanced time to visit. Sunshine hours incrementally progress from 7.7 hours in September to 11 hours in December, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Queenstown
During the summer months, from December to February, Queenstown encounters its highest temperatures. The warmth can touch 17°C (62.6°F) in February and seldom falls below 6.1°C (43°F) during this season. Coinciding with this, there is a decrease in relative humidity during this time, reaching its lowest at 76% in December.
Supplemented by maximum daylight hours that cross 15 hours, summers in Queenstown are meant for outdoor exploration. Rainfall, too, is moderate during this time, with February recording the second-lowest rainfall of 62mm (2.44").
Supplemented by maximum daylight hours that cross 15 hours, summers in Queenstown are meant for outdoor exploration. Rainfall, too, is moderate during this time, with February recording the second-lowest rainfall of 62mm (2.44").
Autumn weather in Queenstown
Autumn in Queenstown, from March to May, witnesses a gradual cooling of temperatures, with high temperatures falling to 11.3°C (52.3°F) by May from 15°C (59°F) in March. Concurrently, autumn nights become colder, with the low temperature going down to 0.8°C (33.4°F) in May.
This transition period also sees a rise in the number of rainy days, alongside a steady decrease in daylight hours. By May, daylight hours reduce to approximately 9.5 hours, impacting outdoor plans that require more daylight.
This transition period also sees a rise in the number of rainy days, alongside a steady decrease in daylight hours. By May, daylight hours reduce to approximately 9.5 hours, impacting outdoor plans that require more daylight.
Winter weather in Queenstown
Winter in Queenstown, spanning from June to August, is known for its cold temperatures and considerable snowfall. The season experiences the lowest high and low temperatures, dropping to 3.7°C (38.7°F) and negative 2.4°C (36.3°F) respectively in July.
Snowfall accentuates during this season, with July witnessing the maximum snowfall of 51mm (2.01"). Despite the cold weather, winter in Queenstown hosts several snow sports, attracting adrenaline junkies worldwide. At the same time, the shortest daylight hours and highest cloud percentage make indoor activities a preferred choice for many.
Snowfall accentuates during this season, with July witnessing the maximum snowfall of 51mm (2.01"). Despite the cold weather, winter in Queenstown hosts several snow sports, attracting adrenaline junkies worldwide. At the same time, the shortest daylight hours and highest cloud percentage make indoor activities a preferred choice for many.
Weather in January
January in Queenstown, New Zealand, offers relatively stable weather conditions with a predictable pattern. A marked humidity level signifies rather moist conditions. Sunshine duration is significantly generous this month, providing ample scope for outdoor exploration. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As February takes over from January, Queenstown's weather records residual winter traits. Daylight hours decrease slightly, although there’s still a fair amount of sunlight. However, snowfall remains absent, promising clear roads and perfect conditions for hikes and treks. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Queenstown's weather in March witnesses subtle shifts yet maintains general stability. The spring season asserts itself more confidently, initiating the transition from winter. Increased cloud cover might limit the sunlight, yet the outdoor activities remain unhindered. Weather in March »
Weather in April
As New Zealand's fall sets in during April, Queenstown experiences noticeable transformations. Compared to March, there's a dip in both daylight hours and sunshine duration. Concurrently, a noticeable increment in snowfall highlights the shift in weather trend. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Queenstown signals the arrival of colder months with progressively lower temperatures. A significant decrease in daylight hours could potentially affect outdoor plans. Meanwhile, the increasing snowfall gears up ski resorts for the peak season. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Queenstown experiences the height of winter during June. Compared to May, there's a decrease in sunshine hours alongside an increase in snowfall. This month embodies a typical winter scenario with freezing temperatures and snow-covered landscapes. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July holds fast to Queenstown's winter spell, barely letting up from the previous month. A restriction in daylight hours enforces the winter vibe, although a minor surge is observed. A stark contrast in this month is presented by the intense, chilly weather conditions. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Queenstown's August follows closely in the footsteps of July, yet invites slight weather modifications. August sees a noticeable uptick in daylight hours hinting at the fading winter. The amount of snowfall decreases from the previous month's peak, signaling a relaxation in winter's grip. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Queenstown marks a distinct move towards warmer times. An upswing in daylight hours, along with an increased sunshine duration, sustains the positive weather transition. A gradual decrease in snowfall aligns with the overall weather improvement. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Queenstown establishes a clear departure from the cold months, welcoming more pleasant conditions. The extend of daylight hours echoes the spirit of spring. A notable increase in sunshine hours enhances the overall vibrancy of the October weather. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November brings Queenstown closer to the approaching summer phase. The sunshine duration lengthens considerably, knitting an overwhelmingly pleasant atmosphere. As snowfall becomes occasional, the month rides on a fascinating blend of the departing spring and incoming summer. Weather in November »
Weather in December
In December, Queenstown exhibits a textbook summer scenario. Prolonged daylight hours, coupled with generous sunshine hours, hint at abundant outdoor opportunities. Rainfall increases, paving the way for lusher landscapes while snowfall becomes negligible. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the least humid month in Queenstown?
The months with the lowest humidity in Queenstown, New Zealand, are January and December, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
How many days does it rain in Queenstown?
Throughout the year, in Queenstown, New Zealand, there are 181.7 rainfall days, and 617mm (24.29") of precipitation is accumulated.
When it does not snow in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, snow does not fall in January, February and December.
How much does it snow in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, during the entire year, snow aggregates up to 223mm (8.78").
What are the months with the highest UV index in Queenstown?
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 4, are months with the highest UV index in Queenstown.
What is the hottest time of year in Queenstown?
February, on average, is the warmest month in Queenstown, New Zealand, registering a high temperature of 17°C (62.6°F) and a low of 6.1°C (43°F).
When does it snow in Queenstown?
Months with snowfall in Queenstown are March through November.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Queenstown?
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 are the months with the lowest UV index in Queenstown?
May and July, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index in Queenstown.
What is the driest month in Queenstown?
The month with the least rainfall in Queenstown, New Zealand, is June, when the rain falls for 10.9 days and typically collects 29mm (1.14") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Queenstown?
June has the shortest days of the year in Queenstown, with an average of 8h and 48min of daylight.
What is the coldest time of year in Queenstown?
The lowest temperatures are recorded in July, with averages reaching a high of 3.7°C (38.7°F) and a low of -2.4°C (27.7°F).
What is the most humid month in Queenstown?
The most humid month in Queenstown is July, with an average relative humidity of 90%.
What is the snowiest month in Queenstown?
July is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 3.8 days and accumulates 51mm (2.01") of snow.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Queenstown?
The month with the least sunshine in Queenstown is July, with an average of 4.9h of sunshine.
What is the rainiest month in Queenstown?
December is the month with the most rainfall in Queenstown, New Zealand. Rain falls for 18.3 days and accumulates 71mm (2.8") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Queenstown?
December has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 30min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Queenstown?
The month with the most sunshine in Queenstown is December, with an average of 11h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Queenstown, New Zealand
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (17°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (3.7°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is January (6.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (-2.4°C).
Average pressure
Queenstown, New Zealand
- Average pressure in January:
1011mbar - Average pressure in February:
1014.2mbar - Average pressure in March:
1016.7mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.7mbar - Average pressure in May:
1012.7mbar - Average pressure in June:
1015.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1013mbar - Average pressure in August:
1011.9mbar - Average pressure in September:
1010.6mbar - Average pressure in October:
1011mbar - Average pressure in November:
1010.7mbar - Average pressure in December:
1011.5mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is March (1016.7mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is September (1010.6mbar).
Average wind speed
Queenstown, New Zealand
- Average wind speed in January:
11km/h - Average wind speed in February:
9.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
9.3km/h - Average wind speed in April:
9.7km/h - Average wind speed in May:
9.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
8.4km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
8.8km/h - Average wind speed in August:
8.4km/h - Average wind speed in September:
9.9km/h - Average wind speed in October:
10.5km/h - Average wind speed in November:
10.5km/h - Average wind speed in December:
9.9km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (11km/h).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are June and August (8.4km/h).
Average humidity
Queenstown, New Zealand
The month with the highest relative humidity is July (90%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January and December (76%).
Average rainfall
Queenstown, New Zealand
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (71mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (29mm).
Average rainfall days
Queenstown, New Zealand
- Average rainfall days in January:
18.2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
14.9 days - Average rainfall days in March:
15.1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14 days - Average rainfall days in June:
10.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.1 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in October:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
18.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
18.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (18.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (10.9 days).
Average snowfall
Queenstown, New Zealand
The month with the highest snowfall is July (51mm).
The months with the least snowfall are January, February and December (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Queenstown, New Zealand
- Average snowfall days in January:
0 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in May:
2.2 days - Average snowfall days in June:
2.7 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in August:
2.4 days - Average snowfall days in September:
2.5 days - Average snowfall days in October:
1.5 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0.1 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is July (3.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are January and February (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Queenstown, New Zealand
- Average daylight in January:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in April:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
9h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
8h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
9h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
15h and 3min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 15h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 8h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in June:
5h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
11h and 0min
The month with the most sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 11h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 4h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Queenstown, New Zealand
- Average sunshine days in January:
9.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.7 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
16.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.6 days - Average sunshine days in October:
10.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
8.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
10.3 days
The month with the most sunshine days is June (16.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (8.5 days).
Average UV index
Queenstown, New Zealand
The months with the highest UV index are January and December (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are May and July (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Queenstown, New Zealand
The month with the most cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 50).
The month with the least cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 42).
Average visibility
Queenstown, New Zealand
The months with the highest visibility are January and December (9km).
The months with the lowest visibility are June, July and August (7km).
Queenstown, New Zealand
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