Last updated: August 31, 2025
Experience the dynamic weather of Arthur's Pass in August, where temperatures typically range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at night to a maximum of 11°C (52°F) during the day, with an average hovering around 3°C (37°F). This month witnesses significant precipitation, with around 202 mm (7.9 in) falling over 20 days, resulting in a captivating, misty landscape perfect for exploration. The air is often heavy with 85% humidity, creating a unique atmosphere that enriches the stunning natural beauty of this alpine region. Whether you're trekking through lush forests or marveling at the towering peaks, Arthur's Pass in August offers a remarkable encounter with nature's ever-changing moods.
In Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, August ushers in the heart of winter with temperatures that reflect a gradual transition towards the milder months ahead. The average low dips to -11°C (13°F), while the average high hovers around 11°C (52°F), creating a refreshing chill in the air. This marks a slight increase from the deep winter lows in July, yet still maintains the frosty essence of the season. As August progresses, visitors can expect a crisp atmosphere perfect for exploring the breathtaking landscapes, with mean temperatures indicating an emerging shift towards the warmer spring months. The chilly conditions invite adventure, making it an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts eager to experience the charm of New Zealand's alpine scenery.
In August, Arthur's Pass experiences a precipitation total of 202 mm (7.9 in), which, although lower than the preceding month of July, still reflects the region's characteristic wet climate. With 20 days of rainfall, August sets the stage for a transition in weather patterns, leading into the typically more intense precipitation of September, which averages 270 mm (10.6 in). This month serves as a bridge, where the abundance of rain and the increasing frequency of wet days hint at the rich, verdant landscapes that characterize this stunning part of New Zealand. As winter wanes and spring approaches, the steady rains of August nurture the environment, preparing it for the lush growth that follows.
In August, Arthur's Pass experiences a humidity level of 85%, continuing the trend of elevated moisture that characterizes the winter months. Following a peak of 87% in the preceding July, the humidity slightly declines but remains notably high compared to the drier summer months. This period marks a transitional phase as humidity levels begin to stabilize in the early spring, hovering around the mid-80s until the month of October. The consistent humidity throughout the late winter and early spring serves to create a lush, vibrant environment, showcasing the natural beauty of this stunning region in New Zealand.
In August, Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, experiences a slight reprieve in UV intensity, with a UV Index of 4 categorized as moderate. This indicates a burn time of 30 minutes, offering a more forgiving environment compared to the summer months when the index peaks at an extreme 13 in January and February. As the seasons transition, the UV levels gradually decline, though a moderate rating still necessitates precaution, especially for prolonged outdoor activities. With autumn approaching, it's important for visitors to remain aware of UV exposure. For more detailed information, check out the Arthur's Pass UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
August in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, offers a subtle transition as the winter chill begins to wane, featuring 184 hours of sunshine that hint at the warmth of spring on the horizon. While this is a modest increase from the colder months of June and July, it remains a contrast to the sun-drenched peaks of January and February, which boast over 250 hours. As August unfolds, nature slowly reawakens, paving the way for longer, brighter days ahead. This gradual rise in sunlight can invigorate both residents and visitors, inviting outdoor adventures amidst the stunning alpine scenery. With September bringing an even higher average of 210 hours, it's clear that the promise of brighter days is just around the corner in this enchanting region.
In August, the likelihood of sunny weather in Arthur's Pass drops to a modest 19%, reflecting a consistent pattern of damp conditions typical for mid-winter. This trend of lower sunshine chances is part of a seasonal shift, with sunshine peaking in February at 30% and gradually tapering off through the cooler months. Following this, April and June also show diminished sunlight, hovering around 19%, similar to August. As winter wanes and spring approaches, the sun starts to make more frequent appearances again. Thus, while August may not be the sunniest month, it's a part of the scenic transition where the lush landscapes begin to awaken after winter's embrace.
In August, daylight in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, begins to show a promising shift as the hours of sunlight increase to 10 hours. This marks a subtle recovery from the extended winter months, which held steady at 9 hours from May through July. As the year progresses, the trend continues, leading into September with 11 hours of daylight, hinting at the imminent arrival of spring. This gradual lengthening is a reminder of nature's cycles, setting the stage for longer, brighter days ahead. Each month’s progression not only brightens the landscape but also boosts spirits, signaling the transition from winter's grasp.
In August, the wind in Arthur's Pass maintains a gentle pace, averaging 2.1 m/s (5 mph), mirroring the serene ambiance of late winter. While August may not boast the highest gusts of the year, it marks a transition towards brisker conditions, with September witnessing a notable increase to 2.7 m/s (6 mph). Observing the year's progression, a subtle downward trend is evident in the wind speeds from July's 1.8 m/s (4 mph) rising back to a more lively current in August. This fluctuation hints at a refreshing shift as the region prepares for the vibrant spring ahead. The late winter breeze is a reminder of nature's gentle touch before the winds pick up in the months to come.
Weather in Arthur's Pass varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares August’s weather to other months in Arthur's Pass, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
August and January present notably different weather conditions in Arthur's Pass. In August, temperatures range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at the minimum to a mild 11°C (52°F) at the maximum, with an average of just 3°C (37°F). This month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 202 mm (7.9 in) over about 20 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, January experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum reaching 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in January at 210 mm (8.3 in), but it occurs over fewer days (16), and the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed insights into January weather in this region, visit Arthur's Pass weather in January.
When comparing the weather in August and February, notable differences emerge. August experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), whereas February boasts milder conditions, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Additionally, February receives more precipitation, totaling 230 mm (9.0 in) over 15 days, compared to August's 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days. Despite the increased rainfall in February, humidity remains slightly lower at 79% compared to August's 85%. For more detailed information on February weather, you can visit Arthur's Pass weather in February.
When comparing the weather in August and March, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. In August, the temperature ranges from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F) with an average of around 3°C (37°F). The month is characterized by a high level of precipitation, totaling 202 mm (7.9 in) over approximately 20 days and a humidity level of 85%. In contrast, March experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average and maximum reaching 11°C (52°F) and 19°C (67°F) respectively. While it has a higher total precipitation of 229 mm (9.0 in) spread over 15 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. These climatic conditions make August feel more frigid and damp compared to the relatively warmer and less humid March. For more specific insights on March weather, you can refer to Arthur's Pass weather in March.
In comparing the weather of August and April, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. August experiences a colder climate, with average temperatures around 3°C (37°F), while April is slightly milder with an average of 8°C (46°F). The maximum temperatures in April can reach 17°C (63°F), compared to the 11°C (52°F) typical of August. Precipitation is also significant in both months, but August records 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, whereas April has a slightly higher total of 228 mm (9.0 in) spread across 16 days. Humidity levels remain comparable, with August at 85% and April at 84%. For a detailed look at April weather, visit Arthur's Pass weather in April.
In comparing the weather of August and May, we observe that August experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 3°C (37°F) compared to May's 5°C (42°F). While both months have high humidity levels, August's is marginally lower at 85%, versus May's 87%. Precipitation is significant in both months, with August receiving 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, while May sees slightly more rain at 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days. For a more detailed look at May's weather conditions, you can visit Arthur's Pass weather in May.
In comparing the weather of August and June, we notice several similarities and differences. Both months share an average temperature of 3°C (37°F), with August experiencing slightly cooler extremes, ranging from -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), while June's temperatures fluctuate between -10°C (15°F) and 13°C (55°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in August, with 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, compared to June's 137 mm (5.4 in) over 15 days. Humidity levels are also quite similar, peaking at 85% in August and slightly higher at 87% in June. For a more detailed look at June's climate in the area, you can explore Arthur's Pass weather in June.
Comparing the weather in July and August reveals some notable differences. In August, temperatures slightly rise, with an average of 3°C (37°F) compared to July's average of 2°C (36°F). However, August experiences a higher minimum temperature of -11°C (13°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), while July's extremes are -10°C (14°F) and 10°C (51°F). Precipitation in August totals 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, which is less than the 269 mm (10.6 in) across 17 days in July, suggesting that while August sees more days of rain, the total rainfall is lower. Humidity remains fairly consistent between the two months, with August at 85% and July at 87%. For a closer look at the July weather specifics, you can check out Arthur's Pass weather in July.
August and September exhibit similar humidity levels at 85%, but September tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from -8°C (18°F) to 13°C (56°F) compared to August's -11°C (13°F) to 11°C (52°F). However, September experiences increased precipitation, measuring around 270 mm (10.6 in) over 19 days, which is higher than August’s 202 mm (7.9 in) across 20 days. This shift in rainfall and temperature highlights the transition into early spring in the region. For more detailed insights on weather conditions, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in September.
August and October present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from winter to spring in the region. In August, temperatures range from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 202 mm (7.9 in) over about 20 days, accompanied by humidity levels around 85%. Conversely, October experiences slightly warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from -12°C (11°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging 7°C (44°F). Precipitation increases to 251 mm (9.9 in) over 21 days, while humidity remains comparable at 84%. This shift indicates a gradual warming trend as the season progresses. For more detailed information on the weather in October, visit Arthur's Pass weather in October.
In comparing the weather between August and November, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation patterns. August experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), while November sees milder conditions, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Additionally, November not only boasts higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 20°C (68°F), but also experiences greater precipitation, totaling 304 mm (12.0 in) over 19 days, compared to August's 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days. Despite these variations, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, at 85% in August and 82% in November. For a more detailed look at November conditions, you can visit Arthur's Pass weather in November.
In August, the weather is typically colder, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, and the humidity remains high at 85%. In contrast, December brings milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F), yielding an average of 11°C (52°F). Although it is also wet in December, with precipitation reaching 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 84%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns in December, you can check out Arthur's Pass weather in December.
August in Arthur's Pass presents a striking contrast to the milder conditions of other months, as winter fully grips the region. With maximum temperatures barely reaching 11°C and minimums plummeting to -11°C, visitors can expect a chilly experience that necessitates warm attire. The pronounced humidity at 85% coupled with 202 mm of precipitation across 20 days signifies a month rich in atmospheric activity, presenting a distinctively damp and brisk environment. This unique weather pattern makes August an enchanting time for those captivated by winter's embrace, while also inviting adventure seekers to explore the stunning snow-laden landscapes. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, visit Arthur's Pass Climate.