Last updated: August 31, 2025
In December, Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, experiences a dynamic climate characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 22°C (72°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), providing a refreshing summer atmosphere. Visitors should prepare for cooler nights, as the minimum temperature can drop to a brisk -1°C (31°F). Precipitation is notable, with an average of 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, leading to lush landscapes and vibrant scenery. The humidity level remains high at 84%, enhancing the region's natural beauty while creating a uniquely invigorating alpine environment. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, December in Arthur's Pass is a captivating blend of warmth and moisture.
In December, Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, experiences a mild transition into summer, with temperatures gradually rising from the cold depths of winter. The month welcomes a minimum of -1°C (31°F), while the average hovers around a pleasant 11°C (52°F). As the days warm up, the maximum reaches a delightful 22°C (72°F), providing a perfect opportunity for outdoor adventures amidst stunning alpine scenery. This trend of rising temperatures contrasts starkly with the frigid months preceding it, highlighting December as a month of rejuvenation and the onset of warm weather, making it an alluring destination for nature enthusiasts eager to explore the beauty of Arthur's Pass.
In December, Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, with a total of 285 mm (11.2 in) falling over 19 days. This trend marks a continuation of the wet season, as December generally follows November's impressive 304 mm (12.0 in), placing the month among the wetter periods of the year. Interestingly, December's rainfall, alongside the numerous rainy days, indicates a persistent pattern of moisture, preparing the landscape for the lushness of summer. As the year winds down, this consistent precipitation plays a crucial role in maintaining the region's vibrant ecosystems, showcasing the dynamic weather that characterizes Arthur's Pass.
In December, humidity levels in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, settle at around 84%, maintaining a trend of elevated moisture that characterizes the region throughout the year. Following a slight dip to 82% in November, December's humidity reflects a consistent pattern observed since the beginning of the year, with months ranging between 79% to 87%. The summer months, including December, often showcase a bit of fluctuation, yet they typically hover in the mid to high 80s. This persistent humidity not only encapsulates the lush, vibrant landscapes of Arthur’s Pass, but also contributes to its unique climatic charm, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
As December rolls into Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, residents and visitors alike should brace for a high-intensity UV Index of 13, categorizing this month within the extreme exposure zone. With a quick burn time of just 10 minutes, it's crucial to take sun safety seriously. This sharp increase follows a trend of rising UV levels in recent months, peaking after November's already intense reading of 11. Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates, starting from a low of 2 in June and then rising significantly as summer approaches, highlighting the importance of vigilance in UV protection during the warmer months. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Arthur's Pass UV Index.
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As December approaches in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, the days grow longer and sunnier, bringing a vibrant end to the year with an impressive 299 hours of sunshine. This month stands out as a shining capstone to the seasonal trend of increasing daylight, following the relatively dimmer months of winter. After the sunlight dips to its lowest in June with just 157 hours, a steady climb ensues, peaking in December and reflecting a natural rhythm of seasonal change. The gradual return of brightness not only enhances the beauty of the stunning landscapes but also invites visitors to embrace outdoor adventures amidst the splendor of the Southern Alps. As daylight hours continue to increase through the spring and summer, December's abundant sunshine encapsulates the essence of a thriving, sun-kissed paradise.
In Arthur's Pass, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a notable dip as December arrives, with only a 14% chance of clear skies. This marks one of the lowest probabilities of sunshine during the year, contrasting sharply with the sunnier summer months of January and February, where the chances soar to 26% and 30%, respectively. The trend indicates a gradual decrease in sunshine hours from the bright energy of early summer toward the cooler months, with the tail end of the year, particularly November, also experiencing a somewhat disappointing 24% chance of sun. While outdoor enthusiasts may yearn for more sun in December, the captivating beauty of the region is certainly worth the occasional cloud cover.
In Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, December ushers in an inviting stretch of daylight, with the sun gracing the landscape for 15 hours each day. This extended daylight marks a highlight of the year, as it follows a gradual increase from 14 hours in November. The trend of increasing daylight duration is particularly notable as the months transition from the darker, cooler days of winter. From July to September, daylight hours hover around 9 to 11 hours, gradually building back to the 12 hours in March and finally peaking in December. As summer approaches, Arthur's Pass is transformed into a vibrant playground beneath the golden rays of the sun, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures.
In December, the winds in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, begin to pick up, reaching an average speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), a noticeable increase from the calmer months prior. This surge marks the highest wind speed of the year, hinting at the transition into summer when the weather becomes more dynamic. Throughout the year, the wind patterns reveal a gradual ebb and flow, with speeds peaking in September before descending into the quieter winter months. As December arrives, the breeze invigorates the landscape, setting the stage for adventurous explorations amidst stunning alpine backdrops. It's a reminder that in this picturesque pass, nature's rhythms are as lively as the breathtaking scenery.
Weather in Arthur's Pass varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Arthur's Pass, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, and a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, January sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Precipitation decreases to 210 mm (8.3 in) over 16 days, resulting in a slight drop in humidity to 81%. For more detailed insights, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in January.
In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), reaching a maximum of 22°C (72°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, combined with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, February sees slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average temperature of 12°C (54°F), maintaining the same maximum of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation decreases to 230 mm (9.0 in) over 15 days, and humidity is also lower at 79%. For more detailed insights into February weather, check Arthur's Pass weather in February.
December and March exhibit some notable similarities and differences in weather patterns. Both months share an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), but December experiences a wider temperature range with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), whereas March has slightly cooler extremes, recording a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is higher in December, totaling 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, compared to March's 229 mm (9.0 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels are also marginally higher in December at 84% compared to 81% in March. For more detailed information on March weather, you can visit Arthur's Pass weather in March.
In December, the weather is generally milder with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a maximum of 22°C (72°F), while the minimum temperature rarely drops below -1°C (31°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 rainy days, all under consistent humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 8°C (46°F), ranging from a low of -10°C (14°F) to a high of 17°C (63°F). Despite receiving less rain, at 228 mm (9.0 in) over 16 days, April maintains the same high humidity level of 84%. For more detailed insights into April’s weather, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in April.
In December, the weather tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May presents cooler conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of -9°C (16°F) and a maximum of 15°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (42°F). While May has lower total precipitation at 243 mm (9.6 in) and slightly fewer rainy days (17), it maintains a higher humidity of 87%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this month, you can explore Arthur's Pass weather in May.
In December, the weather is notably milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, June presents cooler conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), resulting in an average of only 3°C (37°F). June sees less rainfall, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over 15 days, although humidity remains slightly higher at 87%. For more details about the conditions in June, visit Arthur's Pass weather in June.
December weather features a milder temperature range, with average highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows around -1°C (31°F), while enjoying a significant amount of rainfall at 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days. The humidity during this month is also quite high at 84%. In contrast, July presents a much colder climate, with maximum temperatures peaking at just 10°C (51°F) and minimums dropping to -10°C (14°F). Precipitation in July is slightly less at 269 mm (10.6 in) over 17 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 87%. For more information, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences higher rainfall, totaling 285 mm (11.2 in) over 19 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 84%. In stark contrast, August records lower temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), averaging just 3°C (37°F). Additionally, August sees less precipitation, accumulating 202 mm (7.9 in) across 20 days, while humidity remains slightly elevated at 85%. For a more detailed look at August weather conditions, visit Arthur's Pass weather in August.
Comparing the weather in December and September reveals some notable differences. December enjoys a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). In contrast, September is cooler, featuring a lower range with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and peaking at 13°C (56°F), averaging only 4°C (40°F). While both months receive substantial rainfall, December records slightly more precipitation at 285 mm (11.2 in) compared to September's 270 mm (10.6 in), over the same number of days—19. Furthermore, the humidity remains high in both months, with December at 84% and September at 85%. For more details on September weather conditions, visit Arthur's Pass weather in September.
When comparing December and October weather, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December features a milder range, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). In contrast, October experiences colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -12°C (11°F) and reaching a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging around 7°C (44°F). While October sees slightly less precipitation at 251 mm (9.9 in) over 21 days, December has a higher total of 285 mm (11.2 in) across 19 days, although both months share the same humidity level of 84%. For more details on October weather, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, December tends to be slightly warmer, with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), compared to November's average of 9°C (48°F). December also experiences a higher maximum temperature of 22°C (72°F), while November's reaches 20°C (68°F). However, November sees a higher total precipitation of 304 mm (12.0 in) compared to December's 285 mm (11.2 in), despite both months having the same number of rainy days at 19. Additionally, the humidity is slightly higher in December at 84% versus November's 82%. For more specific details about November weather, you can refer to Arthur's Pass weather in November.
In December, Arthur's Pass experiences a notable transition into warmer temperatures, with averages that are significantly higher than in preceding months, offering a pleasant escape from the chill. The combination of higher maximum temperatures and consistently high humidity contributes to a unique climate that attracts visitors looking to embrace the lush beauty of the area. However, travelers should be prepared for the frequent rainfall, as December brings a considerable amount of precipitation over numerous days. This blend of warmth and moisture sets December apart from other months, making it an ideal time to explore the stunning landscapes while enjoying the vibrant flora. For detailed weather patterns throughout the year, check out Arthur's Pass Climate.