Expand
Contents
- The climate of Kaikoura
- The best time to visit Kaikoura
- The worst time to visit Kaikoura
- Spring weather in Kaikoura
- Summer weather in Kaikoura
- Autumn weather in Kaikoura
- Winter weather in Kaikoura
- 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 days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Kaikoura
Kaikoura, New Zealand is best described as having a Marine West Coast climate, also known by its Köppen climate classification as Cfb. This refers to a climate that includes moderate seasonal variations in temperature, high levels of humidity, and substantial rainfall throughout the year. Geographically, Kaikoura is situated on the East coast of New Zealand's South Island, benefiting from the moderating effects of the surrounding ocean.
Shifting focus onto specific climatological parameters; temperatures fluctuate from a low of 5.2°C (41.4°F) to highs nearing 19°C (66.2°F). The cool season lasts from June to August where the highest temperatures struggle to surpass 9.8°C (49.6°F). Conversely, the warmer months from December to February record high temperatures from 17.4°C (63.3°F) to 19°C (66.2°F). Humidity remains relatively consistent throughout the year with percentages typically ranging from 72% to 77%.
Rainfall presents noteworthy variability, with precipitation totals swinging between 16mm (0.63") in September to 45mm (1.77") in April. This variability coincides with the number of rainfall days which peak at 13.9 in December, and dip to a minimum of 7.3 in September. Despite this, snowfall is a rarity, with only minute figures recorded from June to September.
Observing the patterns associated with sea temperatures and daylight hours also provides intriguing insights. Sea temperatures experiences a periodic change from 11.1°C (52°F) in August to 16.7°C (62.1°F) in February. Similarly, daylight hours vary from a mere 9.1 hours in July, peaking at 15.2 hours in December, aligning with the Southern Hemisphere's pattern of shorter winter days and extended summer days.
Shifting focus onto specific climatological parameters; temperatures fluctuate from a low of 5.2°C (41.4°F) to highs nearing 19°C (66.2°F). The cool season lasts from June to August where the highest temperatures struggle to surpass 9.8°C (49.6°F). Conversely, the warmer months from December to February record high temperatures from 17.4°C (63.3°F) to 19°C (66.2°F). Humidity remains relatively consistent throughout the year with percentages typically ranging from 72% to 77%.
Rainfall presents noteworthy variability, with precipitation totals swinging between 16mm (0.63") in September to 45mm (1.77") in April. This variability coincides with the number of rainfall days which peak at 13.9 in December, and dip to a minimum of 7.3 in September. Despite this, snowfall is a rarity, with only minute figures recorded from June to September.
Observing the patterns associated with sea temperatures and daylight hours also provides intriguing insights. Sea temperatures experiences a periodic change from 11.1°C (52°F) in August to 16.7°C (62.1°F) in February. Similarly, daylight hours vary from a mere 9.1 hours in July, peaking at 15.2 hours in December, aligning with the Southern Hemisphere's pattern of shorter winter days and extended summer days.
The best time to visit Kaikoura
The optimal time to visit Kaikoura can largely be influenced by what a visitor is intending to do. However, considering key weather indicators, the summer months from December to February are most ideal for a visit. During these months, temperatures reach their peak hovering between 17.4°C (63.3°F) and 19°C (66.2°F) coupled with the maximum sea temperatures of between 15.9°C (60.6°F) and 16.7°C (62.1°F). This combination can provide an excellent environment for outdoor activities. Additionally, the longest daylight hours are in these months, providing ample time for sightseeing and exploration.
The worst time to visit Kaikoura
Ideal travel times can be subjective as they largely depend on an individual’s preferred activities and tolerance to certain weather conditions. With that being said, the winter months from June to August can be relatively challenging. During this period, temperatures reach their nadir, descending to lows of 5.2°C (41.4°F) to 9.8°C (49.6°F). Added to this, the daylight hours are at their shortest, ranging from 9.1 hours to 9.4 hours. Similarly, sea temperatures drop to the cool side of 11.4°C (52.5°F) to 11.8°C (53.2°F).
Spring weather in Kaikoura
Spring is a particularly pleasant season in Kaikoura, lasting from September to November. Expect moderate temperatures that range from 7.7°C (45.9°F) to 15.1°C (59.2°F). April to September experiences the least rainfall, with totals only between 16mm (0.63") to 24mm (0.94"), making it a fine time to visit outdoor attractions. Combined with the steadily increasing daylight — from 11.8 hours in September to 14.5 hours in November — it presents an excellent opportunity for exploring the local landscape.
Summer weather in Kaikoura
Summer, stretching from December to February, offers the warmest months in Kaikoura. During this time, temperatures can reach highs between 17.4°C (63.3°F) to 19°C (66.2°F). These months also host the highest sea temperatures, perfect for those wishing to engage in water-based activities. Rainfall is relatively low, with December and February witnessing between 25mm (0.98") to 38mm (1.5") of precipitation. The plentiful daylight, lasting up to 15.2 hours in December, provides plenty of opportunity to make the most of the long summer days.
Autumn weather in Kaikoura
March to May marks the autumn season in Kaikoura. This span of months sees temperatures gradually decrease from 17.2°C (63°F) in March to 12.3°C (54.1°F) by May. Rainfall mounts during this season, culminating in the highest precipitation total of 45mm (1.77") in April. Despite the increased rainfall, travel or outdoor plans are facilitated by decent daylight ranging from 11.0 hours to 14.5 hours across these three months.
Winter weather in Kaikoura
Winter descends on Kaikoura from June to August, bringing with it cooler temperatures varying from 5.2°C (41.4°F) to 9.8°C (49.6°F). Despite temperatures lowering, rainfall is still considerable, ranging from 19mm (0.75") to 43mm (1.69"). Sea temperatures also take a dip, hovering around 11.1°C (52°F) to 11.4°C (52.5°F). Yet, amidst these cooler conditions, small daylight hours, ranging from 9.1 hours to 10.4 hours provide a unique charm to the winter landscapes of Kaikoura.
Weather in January
At the start of the year, Kaikoura's weather is characterized by a blend of moderate temperatures and rainfall. The coastal environment creates humidity levels that provide a mild and saturated atmosphere. Winds stir up the ocean, adding a brisk tone to the air. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February, the last month of the summer in Kaikoura, is comfortable month, with an average temperature varying between 19°C (66.2°F) and 12.8°C (55°F). The average temperatures reach their apex in February, averaging 19°C (66.2°F) at the high end and 12.8°C (55°F) at the low end. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The first month of the autumn, March, is still a comfortable month in Kaikoura, New Zealand, with an average temperature ranging between max 17.2°C (63°F) and min 11.4°C (52.5°F). The initiation of March records an average high-temperature of a still enjoyable 17.2°C (63°F), displaying a near consistency with the previous month. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April is typically when autumn asserts its presence in Kaikoura. It continues the cooling trend, bringing lower temperatures, increased rainfall, and more days of rain compared to March. The sea temperature drops to 14.5°C (58.1°F), providing a cool contrast to the still mild air. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May brings noticeable transformation in Kaikoura's weather. The decrease in both temperature and daylight hours signal winter's imminent arrival. The city experiences a rise in humidity while the cooling trend continues towards the year's coldest temperatures. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June signifies the arrival of winter in Kaikoura with temperatures dropping further. Rainfall remains steady but the days are defined by more cloudiness and less sunshine. The sea temperature lowers to 11.8°C (53.2°F), witnessing its sharpest drop in comparison to other months. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Kaikoura's weather in July is typically the coldest and wettest. There’s a slight increase in rainfall that, coupled with low temperatures, makes it a less preferred time for outdoor activities. However, snowfall is almost negligible and temperatures although low, do not reach extreme cold levels. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August brings a minor respite in Kaikoura's winters, with a slight rise in temperature and decrease in rainfall compared to July. The longer daylight hours become noticeable, offering longer periods of natural light. However, the winds remain relatively high, mellowing out the bit of warmth brought by the sun. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Kaikoura signals the entrance of spring. The weather changes are most obvious in the lengthening of days and the rise in temperatures. There's an increase in sunshine, echoed by decline in rainfall, a shift towards drier weather characteristic of the spring season. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October continues the transition to a warmer season in Kaikoura. The city witnesses a rise in average temperatures, longer sunny intervals and fewer rainfall days, symbolizing the onset of spring in full swing. Although the sea temperature climbs to 12.3°C (54.1°F), it still remains on the cooler side for swimming. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Moving into November, Kaikoura experiences warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, setting the stage for the approaching summer. The increase in daytime sunshine transforms the city into a hub for various outdoor activities. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December ushers in summer in Kaikoura, displaying increased temperatures and a high amount of daylight hours. This month is also notable for the highest sea temperature which measures 14.9°C (58.8°F). The commencement of the holiday season sees an influx of tourists, attracted by the pleasant weather and sunshine that marks Kaikoura's welcoming coastline. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the least humid month in Kaikoura?
With an average relative humidity of 72%, January is the least humid month in Kaikoura.
How many days does it rain in Kaikoura?
In Kaikoura, New Zealand, during the entire year, the rain falls for 121.2 days and collects up to 380mm (14.96") of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Kaikoura?
In Kaikoura, snow does not fall in January through May, August, October through December.
How many days does it snow in Kaikoura?
In Kaikoura, during the entire year, snow falls for 0.3 days.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Kaikoura?
January is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the warmest month in Kaikoura?
February is the warmest month of the year in Kaikoura, New Zealand, registering average temperatures as high as 19°C (66.2°F) and as low as 12.8°C (55°F).
When is the sea warmest in Kaikoura?
With an average sea temperature of 16.7°C (62.1°F), February is the month with the warmest seawater in Kaikoura.
What is the rainiest month in Kaikoura?
April is the month with the most rainfall in Kaikoura. Rain falls for 12.8 days and accumulates 45mm (1.77") of precipitation.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Kaikoura?
On Sunday, 07. April 2024, at 3:00 am, Daylight Saving Time ends in Kaikoura, 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.
When is the lowest UV index in Kaikoura?
The months with the lowest UV index in Kaikoura are May through September, with an average maximum UV index of 3.
What is the most humid month in Kaikoura?
The most humid month in Kaikoura is June, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
When does it snow in Kaikoura?
Months with snowfall in Kaikoura are June, July and September.
What is the snowiest month in Kaikoura?
The months with the most snowfall days in Kaikoura, New Zealand, are June, July and September, with an average of 0.1 snowfall days.
What is the month with the shortest days in Kaikoura?
With an average of 9h and 6min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Kaikoura, New Zealand.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Kaikoura?
With an average of 6.2h of sunshine, June has the least sunshine of the year.
What is the coldest month in Kaikoura?
Kaikoura's coldest temperatures are experienced in July, with average high temperatures of 9.1°C (48.4°F) and lows of 5.2°C (41.4°F).
When is the sea coldest in Kaikoura?
August is the month with the coldest seawater in Kaikoura, with an average sea temperature of 11.1°C (52°F).
What is the driest month in Kaikoura?
September is the month with the least rainfall in Kaikoura. Rain falls for 7.3 days and accumulates 16mm (0.63") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Kaikoura?
December has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Kaikoura?
The month with the most sunshine is December, with an average of 11h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (19°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (9.1°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is January (13.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (5.2°C).
Average pressure
Kaikoura, New Zealand
- Average pressure in January:
1011.8mbar - Average pressure in February:
1014.8mbar - Average pressure in March:
1017.3mbar - Average pressure in April:
1016.3mbar - Average pressure in May:
1013.3mbar - Average pressure in June:
1015.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1013.6mbar - Average pressure in August:
1012.7mbar - Average pressure in September:
1011.6mbar - Average pressure in October:
1011.7mbar - Average pressure in November:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in December:
1012.5mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is March (1017.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (1011.5mbar).
Average wind speed
Kaikoura, New Zealand
- Average wind speed in January:
14.6km/h - Average wind speed in February:
13.1km/h - Average wind speed in March:
13.7km/h - Average wind speed in April:
14.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
14.6km/h - Average wind speed in June:
15.2km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
15.4km/h - Average wind speed in August:
14.1km/h - Average wind speed in September:
15.3km/h - Average wind speed in October:
14.6km/h - Average wind speed in November:
14.2km/h - Average wind speed in December:
14.2km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is July (15.4km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is February (13.1km/h).
Average humidity
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The month with the highest relative humidity is June (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is January (72%).
Average rainfall
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is April (45mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (16mm).
Average rainfall days
Kaikoura, New Zealand
- Average rainfall days in January:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
12.8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
8.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
8.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
8.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
7.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
7.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.7 days - Average rainfall days in November:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (13.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is September (7.3 days).
Average snowfall days
Kaikoura, New Zealand
- Average snowfall days in January:
0 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0.1 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0 days
The months with the highest number of snowfall days are June, July and September (0.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are January, February, March, April, May, August, October, November and December (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is February (16.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is August (11.1°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kaikoura, New Zealand
- Average daylight in January:
14h and 5min - 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 4min - Average daylight in June:
9h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in December:
15h and 1min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 15h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
10h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 3min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 3min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
9h and 4min - 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 June (Average sunshine: 6h and 12min).
Average sunshine days
Kaikoura, New Zealand
- Average sunshine days in January:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
21.2 days - Average sunshine days in June:
20.4 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
21.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
21.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
21.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
17.6 days - Average sunshine days in November:
18.1 days - Average sunshine days in December:
13.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is August (21.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (13.6 days).
Average UV index
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The month with the highest UV index is January (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are May, June, July, August and September (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The month with the most cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 38).
The months with the least cloud cover are January and February (Cloud cover 28).
Average visibility
Kaikoura, New Zealand
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Kaikoura, 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
