Expand
Contents
- The climate of Palmerston North
- The best time to visit Palmerston North
- The worst time to visit Palmerston North
- Spring weather in Palmerston North
- Summer weather in Palmerston North
- Autumn weather in Palmerston North
- Winter weather in Palmerston North
- 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 daylight
- Average sunshine
The climate of Palmerston North
Palmerston North, New Zealand, trends towards a Marine west coast climate with warm summers, as distinguished by the Köppen climate classification as Cfb. This category implies coastal areas with consistantly mild and rainy weather. Geographically, Palmerston North is located on the southwestern coast of New Zealand's North Island, enriching its climate with influence from the Tasman Sea.
Analysing annual patterns deduced from the data, temperatures vary moderately through the year. The highest average high temperature reaches 23.5°C (74.3°F) in February while the lowest average low dips to 4.6°C (40.3°F) in July. The difference in highest and lowest average temperatures is 18.9°C (66°F). From January to April, mid-summer peaks in high temperatures and subsequent decrease towards autumn are observed. However, the temperatures begin to rise after August, ushering in the spring warmth by September.
Rainfall is another aspect of Palmerston North's weather conditions that requires mention. On average, the city experiences its highest rainfall of 96mm (3.78") in October, with a maximum of 13 rainy days in August. On the contrary, it sees the lowest rainfall rate of 52mm (2.05") in March. The relative humidity follows a similar pattern, peaking at 86.8% in June and July, and dipping slightly to 75.3% in January.
Analysing annual patterns deduced from the data, temperatures vary moderately through the year. The highest average high temperature reaches 23.5°C (74.3°F) in February while the lowest average low dips to 4.6°C (40.3°F) in July. The difference in highest and lowest average temperatures is 18.9°C (66°F). From January to April, mid-summer peaks in high temperatures and subsequent decrease towards autumn are observed. However, the temperatures begin to rise after August, ushering in the spring warmth by September.
Rainfall is another aspect of Palmerston North's weather conditions that requires mention. On average, the city experiences its highest rainfall of 96mm (3.78") in October, with a maximum of 13 rainy days in August. On the contrary, it sees the lowest rainfall rate of 52mm (2.05") in March. The relative humidity follows a similar pattern, peaking at 86.8% in June and July, and dipping slightly to 75.3% in January.
The best time to visit Palmerston North
The best time to visit Palmerston North extensively depends on the preferences of an individual. For those seeking to experience warm temperatures coupled with extended daylight hours, a visit from December to March would be optimal. During these months, average high temperatures range from 18.3°C (64.9°F) to 23.5°C (74.3°F). Daylight hours peak at 15 hours in December with sunshine hours averaging more than 5 hours per day.
The worst time to visit Palmerston North
Users who prefer sunnier, less rainy days should consider avoiding the period between June and October. These months witness the highest rainfall with averages from 83mm (3.27") to 96mm (3.78"), accompanied by a relative surge in rainy days. Additionally, temperatures hover between the lower bounds of 12.7°C (54.9°F) to 16.7°C (62.1°F) during this period.
Spring weather in Palmerston North
Spring in Palmerston North, starting from September to November, welcomes a gradual rise in temperatures. In this period, average high temperatures ascend from 15.3°C (59.5°F) in September through to 18.3°C (64.9°F) in November. However, an uptick is also observed in rainfall and cloudy days during the spring. Rainfall increases from 86mm (3.39") in September to 81mm (3.19") in November, accompanied with over 10 rainy days per month.
Summer weather in Palmerston North
December to February designates summer in Palmerston North. This season witnesses average high temperatures from 18.3°C (64.9°F) in December escalating to 23.5°C (74.3°F) in February. Rainfall during these months averages between 55mm (2.17") in December to 52mm (2.05") in February. In addition, the average daylight hours climb to their peak of 15 hours a day in December, offering extended hours for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Palmerston North
Autumn deems March to May as crucial for Palmerston North. A steady decline in temperatures is noticed, with average highs shifting from 21.5°C (70.7°F) in March to 15.8°C (60.4°F) in May. Concurrently, days start shortening from the 12.4 hours of daylight in March to 9.9 hours by May. Relative humidity begins to rise, culminating into the year's highest, 85.8% in May.
Winter weather in Palmerston North
June to August bring winter to Palmerston North. A downgrade in temperatures during these months is prominent, as the average high descends from 13.3°C (55.9°F) in June to 12.7°C (54.9°F) in July. Despite receiving less sunshine hours than easing into the year, winter months still bask in 9.3-9.6 hours of daylight every day. As expected, relative humidity peaks during the winter months, offering a sense of freshness, but the already mild and damp winter climate may deter sideroad explorations.
Weather in January
The palatable climate, offered by Palmerston North during January, makes it a favourite amongst visitors seeking a break from the harsh winter elsewhere. Steady temperatures, with an average high of 23°C (73.4°F) and a low of 12.5°C (54.5°F), ensure the days remain pleasantly warm without too much chill creeping in during the evenings or early mornings. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In contrast with January, February exhibits a slight rise in humidity with 77.7% relative humidity; this peaks along with the rainfall of 68mm (2.68") that typically occurs across nearly seven days. The subtle increase of 0.5°C (32.9°F) in the lowest temperature might make the nights feel a tad warmer. Weather in February »
Weather in March
With the arrival of March, Palmerston North experiences an imminent transition towards cooler and more humid conditions. These changes are reflected in the temperature ranges that shift downward to a high of 21.5°C (70.7°F) and a low of 11.2°C (52.2°F). Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in April fully embraces the arrival of autumn in Palmerston North. With average high and low temperatures dropping to 18.6°C (65.5°F) and 8.6°C (47.5°F) respectively, this month effectively breaks away from the warmer months. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Palmerston North epitomises the characteristic unpredictability of the autumn season. A pronounced drop in temperature becomes evident as the city sees highs of 15.8°C (60.4°F) and lows reaching 6.9°C (44.4°F). This month presents an increase in the average rainfall to 72mm (2.83") spanning approximately ten rainy days. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Welcoming winter, June experiences the lowest average high and low temperatures of 13.3°C (55.9°F) and 4.9°C (40.8°F) respectively. Residents and visitors alike find the need to bundle up as the city gets blanketed under cool winter air. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July continues on the winter notes of Palmerston North, as temperatures range from a chilly 12.7°C (54.9°F) high to a near freezing low of 4.6°C (40.3°F). Similarly high humidity (86.8%) and rainfall across approximately twelve days) characterise this month. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August marks the slow transition of Palmerston North weather from winter to spring. This shift is apparent in the small uptick in both the average high and low temperatures. As the city brightens up with an increased 10.6 hours of daylight, albeit with less sunshine, rainfall levels remain high at 77mm (3.03") spread over approximately thirteen days. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings with it a more pronounced shift towards spring, as temperatures inch upwards to a high of 15.3°C (59.5°F) and a low of 6.6°C (43.9°F). Rainfall remains high, with approximately 86mm (3.39") falling over nearly twelve days. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October, firmly anchored in spring, welcomes a warming trend in Palmerston North. The temperatures continue to rise, reaching average highs and lows of 16.7°C (62.1°F) and 8.1°C (46.6°F) respectively. Rainfall during this month peaks at 96mm (3.78"), highest after June, leading to lush, vibrant foliage across the city. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November signifies Palmerston North’s transition from spring to summer with temperatures continuing to rise, reaching an average high of 18.3°C (64.9°F) and a low of 9.3°C (48.7°F). Despite higher temperatures, rainfall remains substantial at 81mm (3.19") over approximately ten days, providing a refreshing contrast. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Welcoming summer, December offers the highest average temperatures of the year with highs reaching 20.9°C (69.6°F) and lows around 11.5°C (52.7°F). Rainfall, while significant at 88mm (3.46") on average, is usually distributed over approximately eleven cloudy days. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the least humid month in Palmerston North?
The least humid month in Palmerston North is January, with an average relative humidity of 75.3%.
How much does it rain in Palmerston North?
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, during the entire year, the rain falls for 121.7 days and collects up to 917mm (36.1") of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine in Palmerston North?
With an average of 6.9h of sunshine, January has the most sunshine of the year.
What is the hottest time of year in Palmerston North?
Palmerston North witnesses the warmest weather in February, with temperatures averaging a high of 23.5°C (74.3°F) and a low of 13°C (55.4°F).
What is the driest month in Palmerston North?
The month with the least rainfall is March, when the rain falls for 7.7 days and typically collects 52mm (2.05") of precipitation.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Palmerston North?
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 most humid months in Palmerston North?
The months with the highest humidity in Palmerston North are June and July, with an average relative humidity of 86.8%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Palmerston North?
With an average of 9h and 18min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Palmerston North?
June has the least sunshine of the year in Palmerston North, New Zealand, with an average of 2.6h of sunshine.
What are the coldest months in Palmerston North?
July is Palmerston North's coldest month, registering average high temperatures of 12.7°C (54.9°F) and lows of 4.6°C (40.3°F).
What is the rainiest month in Palmerston North?
October is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 11.8 days and accumulates 96mm (3.78") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Palmerston North?
The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 15h and 0min of daylight.
Average temperature
Palmerston North, New Zealand
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (23.5°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (12.7°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (13°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (4.6°C).
Average humidity
Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Average humidity in January:
75.3% - Average humidity in February:
77.7% - Average humidity in March:
79.4% - Average humidity in April:
81.2% - Average humidity in May:
85.8% - Average humidity in June:
86.8%
The months with the highest relative humidity are June and July (86.8%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is January (75.3%).
Average rainfall
Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Average rainfall in January:
55mm - Average rainfall in February:
67.8mm - Average rainfall in March:
51.8mm - Average rainfall in April:
65.9mm - Average rainfall in May:
71.5mm - Average rainfall in June:
95.1mm
- Average rainfall in July:
82.5mm - Average rainfall in August:
76.9mm - Average rainfall in September:
86.1mm - Average rainfall in October:
96.4mm - Average rainfall in November:
80.9mm - Average rainfall in December:
87.5mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (96.4mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is March (51.8mm).
Average rainfall days
Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
6.9 days - Average rainfall days in March:
7.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
12.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (13 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (6.9 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Average daylight in January:
14h and 4min - 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 2min
- Average daylight in July:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 4min - 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 0min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 15h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 9h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
3h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
2h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
3h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
3h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 6h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 2h and 36min).
Palmerston North, 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
