Climate and monthly weather forecastTimaru, New Zealand

The climate of Timaru

Located on the east coast of New Zealand, Timaru is categorized according to the Köppen climate classification as having a Marine West Coast, warm summer climate. As such, weather conditions in the city exhibit distinct variations that occur within the year.

Taking a closer look at the climatological data, it is unveiled that there is a defined shift in temperatures from a peak in January at 21.5°C (70.7°F) to the lowest in July at 10.6°C (51.1°F). Corresponding lows follow similar trends with January's low at 10.3°C (50.5°F) and July at -0.6°C (30.9°F). This level of differentiation in temperatures that occur from month to month emphasizes a considerable seasonal fluctuation.

The relative humidity remains fairly stable throughout the year. It ranges from a high of 85.6% in May to a low of 75.2% in November. This constant humidity is mirrored in the city’s sea temperatures which range from 16.4°C (61.5°F) in February to 9.9°C (49.8°F) in August, remaining mildly cold all year round.

Rainfall does not exhibit a pattern of drought or deluge but is quite evenly spread throughout the year, ranging from 53mm (2.09") in December to 37mm (1.46") in September. It rains for an average of 6 to 8 days per month which means that the city receives considerable rainfall throughout the year.

The dynamics of sunshine and daylight also follow an expected path with a peak in December at 15.5h and a bottom point in June at 8.9h. Correspondingly, sunshine hours reach the highest in December at 6.3h and the lowest in June and July at 4h.

The best time to visit Timaru

Given these climatological specifics, the best time to visit Timaru would fall between January and March. During these months, this coastal city enjoys the most comfortable weather conditions, including the highest temperatures ranging from 21.5°C (70.7°F) to 19.5°C (67.1°F) along with relatively low rainfall levels from 47mm (1.85") to 48mm (1.89"). In addition to this, the daylight hours are abundant, averaging between 15.1h to 12.4h, providing ample time to explore the destination.

The worst time to visit Timaru

Conversely, the months from June to August are deemed to be the least appealing for visitors. The cold winter climate prevails during these months, with temperatures dropping to lows of -0.2°C (31.6°F) to -0.6°C (30.9°F). Simultaneously, the amount of daylight is reduced to as low as 8.9h in June. The sea temperature also reaches its coldest point going down to 9.9°C (49.8°F) in August, discouraging any water-related activities.

Spring weather in Timaru

The spring season, falling between September and November, in Timaru brings a gradual increase in temperatures from 14.5°C (58.1°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Rainfall during this period remains relatively stable ranging from 37mm (1.46") in September to 50mm (1.97") in November. The humidity levels are the lowest for the year, at 75.2% in November, which in combination with increasing daylight and moderate rainfall, provides favorable conditions for outdoor activities.

Summer weather in Timaru

Summers in Timaru, which run from December to February, are mild and pleasant. High temperatures in this season range from 21.5°C (70.7°F) in January to 19.7°C (67.5°F) in February making it the warmest period. Rainfall levels remain steady from 53mm (2.09") in December to 52mm (2.05") in February. Long days, courtesy of daylight hours between 15.1h to 13.9h and warm sea temperatures from 16.1°C (61°F) to 16.4°C (61.5°F), facilitate a perfect backdrop for aquatic pursuits and beach-related activities.

Autumn weather in Timaru

Timaru's Autumn months, from March to May, introduce cooler temperatures ranging from 19.5°C (67.1°F) to 13.7°C (56.7°F). Rainfall increases to 50mm (1.97") in March, then reduces slightly to 47mm (1.85") in May. Meanwhile, daylight hours reduce from 12.4h in March to 9.6h in May. These conditions combined manifest in cooler days and increasingly chilly nights, signaling the transition into winter.

Winter weather in Timaru

Winter, from June to August, is the coldest season in Timaru with average temperatures dropping from 11.3°C (52.3°F) in June to 10.6°C (51.1°F) in July. Rainfall remains relatively constant, ranging between 39mm (1.54") in June to 44mm (1.73") in August. This period also has the shortest daylight hours between 8.9h in June to 10.3h in August, with consistent sea temperatures fluctuating from 11.2°C (52.2°F) to 9.9°C (49.8°F). Therefore, this season is characterized by cold, damp conditions with relatively short daylight hours.

Weather in January

The weather in Timaru, New Zealand, greets the year with mild temperatures and relative humidity. A notable change occurs from December's conditions as the average high temperature peaks at a balmy 21.5°C (70.7°F) in January. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February in Timaru continues the trend of mild temperatures indicative of Summer's grip. A practical transformation is observed in the average sea temperature that moderates to 16.4°C (61.5°F); contrasting January's peak. The weather discloses reduced daylight hours which aligns harmoniously with the slightly cooler conditions. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Timaru's weather in March sings of subtle transition as it heads into Autumn. The evolution in climatic conditions is present in the high temperature, dwindling to 19.5°C (67.1°F). March's weather affords a balanced interplay of daytime warmth and cool evenings. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Timaru is indicative of an authentic autumnal atmosphere. Observing the transformation from March, the average low temperature drops noticeably to 5.1°C (41.2°F). It resonates with the diminished daylight hours, anchoring the city in the heart of the season. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May in Timaru exemplifies the winter onset with considerably cooler conditions. The climate changes manifest in lower temperatures, which descend significantly to an average high of 13.7°C (56.7°F); a marked transformation from April. Weather in May »

Weather in June

Timaru's weather in June ushers in winter in its full glory with temperatures plummeting and days turning shorter. The temperatures hit the lower end of the scale with June's low averaging at a brisk -0.2°C (31.6°F). The city grapples with cold snaps, interspersed with pockets of sunlight during the daytime. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Timaru maintains the steady course of winter with temperatures hovering around the 10.6°C (51.1°F) mark. This period represents the crux of winter, snapping away from June's temperature trough. Despite the chill, the city witnesses a stable mix of humidity and limited rainfall. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Timaru marks the end of winter, paving the way to spring with slightly increased temperatures. The average high temperature climbs to 12.1°C (53.8°F), signaling a transition from July's cold. The weather bears witness to an increase in daylight hours in correspondence with the shifting season. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Timaru welcomes September with the promise of spring and warmer days. The noticeable rise in temperatures to 14.5°C (58.1°F) highlights the progressive change from the chill of August. September's weather reflects a sense of renewal, with plants beginning to bloom and wildlife becoming more active. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Timaru enjoys spring at its pinnacle, characterized by warming trends and extended periods of sunlight. There's a notable switch in climate compared to September as reflected in the average sea temperature, soaring to 11.6°C (52.9°F). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Timaru serves as a gateway to summer with increased temperatures and high daylight hours. The monthly average rainfall, however, spikes to around 50mm (1.97"), ensuing a contrast to October's favorable conditions. The climate brings with it prolonged hours of daylight and a general lift in atmospheric temperature. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Timaru is earmarked by the onset of summer, characterized by longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. The weather transition from November is distinct, with sea temperatures reaching an annual high of 14.8°C (58.6°F). Weather in December »