Climate and monthly weather forecastOamaru, New Zealand

The climate of Oamaru

Oamaru, New Zealand sits under the Köppen climate classification Cfb, denoting a marine climate that sees warm summers and mild winters. As a city nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand's South Island, Oamaru experiences a broad range of temperature fluctuations throughout the year, while rainfall manages a relatively steady presence year-round.

A look at monthly temperature averages illustrates a distinct cool shift from summer to winter. Peak temperatures hover around 20.7°C (69.3°F) in January and dip to a chilly 9.8°C (49.6°F) in July. Meanwhile, the lowest temperatures range from 11.4°C (52.5°F) in January inward to a brisk 1.6°C (34.9°F) in July. This seasonal temperature variance creates a dynamic climate landscape that transitions from warm and inviting summers to colder, more indoor-friendly winters.

Rainfall in Oamaru maintains a steadier, consistent presence across the year. Precipitation measures around 54mm (2.13") in January and climbs to a yearly high of 63mm (2.48") in March. The most arid period of the year is September with the rainfall measuring 32mm (1.26"). Oamaru's daylight hours also fluctuate significantly from summer to winter—a generous 15.2 hours available in January, dwindling down to just 8.8 hours in June.

The best time to visit Oamaru

Visitors looking to best enjoy Oamaru's outdoor offerings should consider venturing to the region during the summer months of December to February. During this time, the city sees maximum daylight hours ranging from 14.8 to 15.5 hours, while temperatures remain comfortably warmed between 17.8°C (64°F) and 20.7°C (69.3°F). Moreover, rainfall tends to be moderate compared to other periods of the year, ensuring fewer rainy days to dampen travel plans.

The worst time to visit Oamaru

While Oamaru holds interest throughout the year, the colder winter season, from June to August is perhaps the least inviting for visitors. During this period, Oamaru sees its lowest temperatures, dropping to a chilly average of 1.6°C (34.9°F) in July. Daylight hours are also at their shortest during winter, reaching a low of 8.8 hours in June, limiting outdoor explorations.

Spring weather in Oamaru

Spring in Oamaru, which stretches from September to November, ushers in a gentle rise in temperature. Starting at an average high of 13.9°C (57°F) in September, temperatures see a gradual climb to 17.8°C (64°F) by November. Correspondingly, the city enjoys an increase in daylight hours—11.8 hours in September, extending out to 14.8 hours by November. The period sees a moderate rainfall, with 32mm (1.26") in September progressively increasing to 49mm (1.93") by November.

Summer weather in Oamaru

Summer in Oamaru graces the city with its warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours. Average high temperatures for the season range from 17.8°C (64°F) in December to 20.7°C (69.3°F) in January, providing delightful conditions for outdoor activities. Daylight hours also reach their peak in summer, offering between 14.8 to 15.5 hours daily from December to February. Despite being summer, rainfall is evenly spread with totals hovering between 49mm (1.93") to 58mm (2.28").

Autumn weather in Oamaru

As autumn rolls in from March to May, Oamaru experiences a gradual decline in temperatures and daylight hours. The period begins with a high temperature of 19°C (66.2°F) in March, cooling down to 13°C (55.4°F) by May. Daylight hours also dwindle from 12.4 hours in March to 9.5 hours in May. Meanwhile, rainfall stays constant with a slight drop from 63mm (2.48") in March to 50mm (1.97") in May.

Winter weather in Oamaru

Winter in Oamaru runs from June to August with the cold truly biting in July when the temperature drops to an average low of 1.6°C (34.9°F). Daylight hours also reach their minimum in June, with just 8.8 hours available. The winter period sees a slight increase in precipitation, with rainfall measuring between 40mm (1.57") in June and 45mm (1.77") in August. Despite the cold, the winter rainfall contributes to the lush, green landscapes Oamaru is renowned for.

Weather in January

In the opening month of the year, Oamaru, New Zealand experiences the warmest climatic conditions. Thermometers register a high of 20.7°C (69.3°F) and a low of 11.4°C (52.5°F), highlighting January as the month with the highest peak temperature. Weather in January »

Weather in February

The weather landscape in Oamaru shifts mildly in February, preserving the warmth from January. A marginal decrease to 20.6°C (69.1°F) for the highest temperature and 11.3°C (52.3°F) for the lowest excludes February from the balmiest periods of the year. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Transitioning into autumn, March sees a major shift in the weather patterns in Oamaru. The temperatures drop noticeably with a highest average of 19°C (66.2°F) and a low of 10°C (50°F). As the city makes its way into the cooler months, daylight hours reduce significantly. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Oamaru brings a cool, crisp atmosphere marking the full onset of autumn. A significant drop in temperature sees the highest average falling down to 16.4°C (61.5°F) and the lowest to 7.3°C (45.1°F). The accompanying steady shower translates into a wetter month compared to March. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May ushers in a considerably colder climate to Oamaru, setting the stage for winter. The drastic change in temperate is evidenced by a highest temperature average of only 13°C (55.4°F) and a lower one of 4.3°C (39.7°F). Rainfall frequency remains fairly steady while daylight hours continue to dwindle. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June embodies the wintry charm of Oamaru with temperatures dipping further. As the coldest month of the year, thermometers register averages between 10.1°C (50.2°F) during the day and merely 1.8°C (35.2°F) at night. The minimally long days and the chilling cold set the precedence of midwinter. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July sees a continuation of the cold season in Oamaru. A subtle variance in temperature brings the highest average to 9.8°C (49.6°F) and the lowest to 1.6°C (34.9°F). Despite being the deep winter period, daylight begins to lengthen once again. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Oamaru ceaselessly welcomes warmer weather patterns throughout August. While the average highest temperature soars to 11.4°C (52.5°F), the lowest steadily lingers around 2.8°C (37°F). The lengthening daylight signifies a steady mash-up of warm and cold air. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The splendour of spring manifests itself in September with Oamaru being graced with warmer weather. A jump is observed in temperatures with the highest average now at 13.9°C (57°F) and the lowest at 4.8°C (40.6°F). September brings clear skies, gifting the city with extended sunny spells. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Oamaru marks the middle of spring with a further surge in ambient temperature. With a non-precipitous weather pattern and extended daylight hours, the city thrives. Taking a break from frequent showers, this time becomes ideal for outdoor activities. Weather in October »

Weather in November

As the last bids of spring are savoured, November marks pleasant climatic conditions in Oamaru. A clear sky and lengthened daylight hours set a serene mood. Shifting from the springtime vibrancy, the city prepares to welcome the approach of summer. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December brings back the summer charm to Oamaru with a warmer climate. The city records average highs of 19.5°C (67.1°F) and lows of 10.5°C (50.9°F). Welcoming the longest day of the year, the city is bathed in sunlight. Holidays combined with these longer, warmer days create a lively atmosphere, wrapping up the year energetically. Weather in December »