Best months
January, February, and March
Warmest month
January, 23°C
Wettest month
July, 77 mm
Christchurch weather by month
Average daily high and low, total rainfall and days with at least 2.5 mm of rain.
| Month | High / low | Rain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 23°C / 11°C | 41 mm · 4 days | Great |
| February | 23°C / 11°C | 46 mm · 3 days | Great |
| March | 21°C / 9°C | 50 mm · 4 days | Great |
| April | 18°C / 6°C | 57 mm · 4 days | Good |
| May | 15°C / 3°C | 66 mm · 5 days | Good |
| June | 12°C / 1°C | 74 mm · 6 days | Cold |
| July | 12°C / 0°C | 77 mm · 5 days | Cold |
| August | 13°C / 1°C | 55 mm · 4 days | Fair |
| September | 15°C / 2°C | 39 mm · 4 days | Good |
| October | 18°C / 4°C | 53 mm · 4 days | Good |
| November | 20°C / 7°C | 45 mm · 4 days | Good |
| December | 22°C / 10°C | 61 mm · 5 days | Great |
Christchurch by season
Spring
September to November brings blooming flowers in the Botanic Gardens, warmer temperatures, and longer days. It's a beautiful time to see the city come alive with color after winter.
- + Milder crowds than peak summer
- + Stunning blossoms in the gardens
- + Good for hiking as alpine snow melts
- − Weather can be changeable (four seasons in a day)
- − Some outdoor adventure activities may not be fully operational
Summer
December to February is warm and sunny, with long evenings perfect for outdoor dining and festivals. This is peak tourist season, with the city at its most vibrant.
- + Warmest weather (avg 22°C), ideal for parks & punting
- + Major festivals like the Buskers Festival and Christmas in the Park
- + All day trips and activities are running
- − Highest prices for accommodation
- − More crowds at major attractions
Autumn
March to May offers crisp, clear days and stunning autumn foliage, particularly in Hagley Park. The summer crowds dissipate, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.
- + Beautiful fall colors
- + Pleasant temperatures for exploration
- + Lower accommodation rates after Easter
- − Weather becomes cooler and more unpredictable
- − Some seasonal summer activities wind down
Winter
June to August is cold but often sunny, with frosty mornings. Christchurch becomes a hub for skiers and snowboarders heading to the nearby Southern Alps.
- + Gateway to fantastic skiing at Mt. Hutt & other fields
- + Lowest tourist crowds in the city itself
- + Cosy atmosphere with pubs and fireplaces
- − Can be quite cold (avg 7°C), especially at night
- − Some gardens are less vibrant
Christchurch month by month
Christchurch in January
GreatIn January, Christchurch averages highs of 23°C and lows of 11°C, with about 4 rainy days and 41 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Christchurch in February
GreatIn February, Christchurch averages highs of 23°C and lows of 11°C, with about 3 rainy days and 46 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Christchurch in March
GreatIn March, Christchurch averages highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C, with about 4 rainy days and 50 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Christchurch in April
GoodIn April, Christchurch averages highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C, with about 4 rainy days and 57 mm of rain. It is a good month to visit.
Christchurch in May
GoodIn May, Christchurch averages highs of 15°C and lows of 3°C, with about 5 rainy days and 66 mm of rain. It is a good month to visit.
Christchurch in June
ColdIn June, Christchurch averages highs of 12°C and lows of 1°C, with about 6 rainy days and 74 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Christchurch in July
ColdIn July, Christchurch averages highs of 12°C and lows of 0°C, with about 5 rainy days and 77 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Christchurch in August
FairIn August, Christchurch averages highs of 13°C and lows of 1°C, with about 4 rainy days and 55 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Christchurch in September
GoodIn September, Christchurch averages highs of 15°C and lows of 2°C, with about 4 rainy days and 39 mm of rain. It is a good month to visit.
Christchurch in October
GoodIn October, Christchurch averages highs of 18°C and lows of 4°C, with about 4 rainy days and 53 mm of rain. It is a good month to visit.
Christchurch in November
GoodIn November, Christchurch averages highs of 20°C and lows of 7°C, with about 4 rainy days and 45 mm of rain. It is a good month to visit.
Christchurch in December
GreatIn December, Christchurch averages highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C, with about 5 rainy days and 61 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Top tours and experiences in Christchurch
The tours and tickets travellers book most, with ratings and reviews from Viator.
Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch - including Lunch & Tastings
4.5515 reviews5h 30m
from €103
Check availability
TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
4.9501 reviews10h
from €197
Check availabilityAll things to do in Christchurch →
Tours and prices from Viator, a Tripadvisor company. Prices change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.
Plan your Christchurch trip
Best time to visit Christchurch: FAQ
What is the best month to visit Christchurch?+
January is the most comfortable month on average, with highs of 23°C. February and March are close behind.
What is the rainiest month in Christchurch?+
July is the wettest month, with about 77 mm of rain.
How hot does Christchurch get?+
January is the warmest month, with average highs of 23°C and lows of 11°C. The coldest nights come in July, averaging 0°C.
Averages for 2006–2025 from the CHRISTCHURCH INTL weather station (9 km from the centre), NOAA Global Historical Climatology Network. Verdicts rate sightseeing comfort from daytime highs and rainy days.