| The Canterbury
climate
Canterbury enjoys warm dry summers and cool to crisp/cold
winters. It lies in the "rain shadow" of the Southern
Alps and annual rainfall is only around 900mm (30 inches).
Most rainfall is between April and November. Maximum temperatures
in summer typically in the range 27 -33 degrees centigrade.
The highest temperature ever recorded in Christchurch was
42 degrees. In the spring and early summer you may periodically
experience the Nor'wester. This is a strong warm katabatic
wind somewhat like a mistral. In winter the temperatures
can range from 2-12 degrees. Crisp cold days are often accompanied
by clear blue skies. In contrast to this the the West coast
of the South Island and Fiordland can have around ten times
the rainfall and record rain on up to 300 days a year!
Claremont at Waipara has has a similar climate to Canterbury
and benefits from its own micro-climate. This is generally
2-3 degrees centigrade warmer than Christchurch City. We
have longer sunshine hours as we are well away from the
Banks peninsular that influences the Christchurch climate
- particularly in an easterly wind.
The summer climate could be described as being "Mediterranean"
which is why the region is suitable for growing excellent
grapes and olives. Between the months of December and March
do not be surprised to see dry grassland rather than lush
green pastures.
Finally, New Zealand is an island and, like Britain, the
climate is changeable. When the wind swings round to the
South the temperature can drop quickly, even in Summer.
In short anywhere in New Zealand it is wise to be prepared
for all four seasons in a single day! Temperature changes
can be quite abrupt. Select clothing that can be worn in
layers so you can peel on or off according to the changing
conditions.Pack your clothes accordingly!
Average temperatures and sunshine
hours for Christchurch
| Month |
Temp in centegrade
degrees |
Monthly sunshine
hours |
| January |
17.0 |
209 |
| February |
16.8 |
186 |
| March |
15.1 |
163 |
| April |
12.2 |
150 |
| May |
8.9 |
125 |
| June |
6.1 |
120 |
| July |
5.6 |
122 |
| August |
6.9 |
145 |
| September |
9.2 |
162 |
| October |
11.6 |
200 |
| November |
13.8 |
207 |
| December |
15.7 |
210 |
Check out our weather watch links for more comprehensive
meteorological information:
Four
Corners for various weather reports
New
Zealand Meteorological Service for weather
forecasts for New Zealand
NZ
City for the three day forecast
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