Last updated: August 31, 2025
December in Christchurch, New Zealand offers a delightful blend of warm temperatures and occasional rain. With maximum temperatures reaching 26°C (78°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), visitors can enjoy the vibrant summer ambiance. Nighttime brings cooler air, with minimum temperatures dropping to 9°C (48°F). While the city welcomes about 81 mm (3.2 in) of rainfall over 11 days, the high humidity at 75% adds to the lush greenery, giving Christchurch its enchanting charm. Whether you're exploring the beautiful parks or indulging in outdoor activities, December is a wonderful time to experience the scenic beauty of this iconic Kiwi destination.
In December, Christchurch, New Zealand, welcomes the summer with delightful warmth, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to an inviting maximum of 26°C (78°F). This month stands out with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F), offering a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities and exploration. As the year progresses from the cooler months of winter (July and August), where temperatures dip to around 2°C (35°F), December showcases a significant rise in warmth, aligning with the trend of increasing temperatures throughout the spring. The transition into summer not only brings longer days but also a vibrant local culture ready to celebrate the season. Visitors can enjoy the cheerful ambiance as Christchurch basks in the sun, making December a perfect time to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer.
As December unfolds in Christchurch, New Zealand, the city experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain distributed over 11 days. This marks the wettest month of the year, following a trend of rising rainfall that peaks from the spring months into summer. In comparison, November's 68 mm was recorded over 8 days, indicating a shift towards a wetter season as the year draws to a close. This uptick in rainfall provides vital moisture for the region’s flora, setting a lush backdrop for the holiday season. Notably, the long days and warmer temperatures amplify the impact of December’s precipitation, contrasting with the drier conditions of the earlier months, making it an essential transition period into the vibrant summer months ahead.
As December arrives in Christchurch, New Zealand, the humidity begins to ease slightly, averaging 75%. This marks a gentle decline from the peak levels seen in the winter months, where humidity reached a high of 85% in July. The trend throughout the year showcases a gradual increase in moisture, especially during the cooler seasons from May to July, where humidity hovers around the 82-85% range. However, as summer nudges closer, December's humidity signals a transitional phase, indicating a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere as the city prepares to embrace warmer days ahead.
In December, Christchurch experiences a notably high UV Index of 12, placing it in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of only 10 minutes. This trend follows a pattern established in the previous months of January and February, which also reported extreme levels, while the transition to the milder autumn months, like March and April, brings a gradual decrease in UV intensity. However, as summer approaches, the risk spikes again, evident in November's high UV Index of 10. Therefore, it's crucial to stay vigilant during December, protecting your skin from the sun's harsh rays. For further insights and details, visit the Christchurch UV Index.
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In Christchurch, New Zealand, December marks the peak of sunlight with a stunning 334 hours gracing the city, painting the summer sky with warmth and vibrancy. This festive month stands out, not only for its abundant sunshine but also as a significant jump from the early winter's lows, where June recorded a mere 165 hours. As the year progresses, the sunshine hours gradually increase, peaking in December after a consistent rise from the beginning of spring in October, which had 294 hours. Notably, this upward trend underscores the arrival of longer days and milder weather, making December a delightful time to embrace outdoor activities and celebrate the holiday season under the sun-kissed skies of Christchurch.
In Christchurch, New Zealand, December brings a 32% chance of sunny weather, marking a decline compared to the sunnier months that precede it. As the year winds down, this figure sits lower than the averages seen in April (54%) and September (51%), showcasing a noticeable dip in sunny days as the city heads into summer. Interestingly, while the early months of the year, such as January and February, boast higher probabilities of sunshine, December appears to struggle to maintain that brightness. As locals and visitors alike anticipate the warm season, the outlook for clear skies becomes less promising, highlighting a trend where the onset of summer may not guarantee sunny weather right away.
In Christchurch, New Zealand, the daylight duration peaks in December with an impressive 15 hours of sunlight, inviting residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the beauty of summer. This gradual increase in daylight begins in spring, as the city transitions from October's 13 hours to a bright 14 hours in November, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with outdoor activities and festivities. However, as the year unfolds into winter, daylight decreases, hitting a low of 8 hours in June. The cycle resumes its upward trend in July with 9 hours and continues to build towards December's longest days, emphasizing the dynamic nature of daylight in this southern locale. Each season brings its own rhythm, making the experience of daylight in Christchurch a captivating journey throughout the year.
As December unfolds in Christchurch, New Zealand, residents experience a gentle increase in average wind speed, averaging 4.8 m/s (11 mph). This marks a subtle revival from the calmer breezes of mid-year, notably the lowest point in June at 3.7 m/s (8 mph). Throughout the months, the wind tends to oscillate between mild and moderate, but December signals a noteworthy uptick, bringing a refreshing atmosphere as summer approaches. The steady winds not only enhance the region's lively charm but also create the perfect backdrop for outdoor festivities, making it a delightful time to enjoy the city's coastal beauty. With winds slowly rising from the lowest average of the year, December showcases a breezy transition that sets the stage for the vibrant summer months ahead.
Weather in Christchurch varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Christchurch, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences relatively high precipitation, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over approximately 11 days, contributing to a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, January sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), along with an average of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 47 mm (1.8 in) over just 7 days, resulting in a slightly lower humidity of 72%. For more detailed insights, check out Christchurch weather in January.
In December, the weather typically features mild temperatures with a minimum of 9°C (48°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 26°C (78°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, averaging 81 mm (3.2 in) spread over 11 days, and maintaining a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, February offers slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). The precipitation drastically decreases to 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 6 days, and the humidity is slightly lower at 72%. For a more detailed look at February weather, you can visit Christchurch weather in February.
December and March in Christchurch exhibit mild temperatures, with December showing a slightly wider range. In December, the minimum temperature is around 9°C (48°F), averaging 16°C (61°F), and reaching a maximum of 26°C (78°F). In contrast, March's temperatures are marginally lower, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation levels also differ, as December receives more rain at 81 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days compared to March's 55 mm (2.2 in) over 9 days. Both months have relatively high humidity, with December at 75% and March slightly higher at 77%. For more details about the weather in March, you can refer to Christchurch weather in March.
In December, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). The month experiences about 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a relative humidity of 75%. In contrast, April sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation in April is slightly lower at 70 mm (2.8 in) occurring over 8 days, alongside a modest increase in humidity at 77%. For a more detailed understanding of April's climate specifically, you can refer to this link: Christchurch weather in April.
In December, the weather tends to be warmer and more humid compared to May. December sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a max of 26°C (78°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F) and higher precipitation levels at 81 mm (3.2 in) across 11 days. In contrast, May has a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). The month experiences less precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in) over 7 days, and slightly higher humidity at 82%. For a detailed overview of the weather during this month, check out Christchurch weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, we observe significant differences in temperature and humidity levels. December boasts a milder climate, with minimums of 9°C (48°F), averages around 16°C (61°F), and maximums reaching 26°C (78°F). In contrast, June brings cooler conditions, featuring minimums of 2°C (36°F), averages of 9°C (48°F), and maximums of 18°C (64°F). Additionally, while December experiences 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, June sees slightly less rain at 66 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, although it has a higher humidity level of 84% compared to December's 75%. For more detailed information, visit Christchurch weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month experiences about 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and the humidity sits at a comfortable 75%. In comparison, July brings cooler air, with temperatures ranging from a low of 2°C (35°F) to a high of 15°C (59°F), and an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). There is slightly less precipitation in July, totaling 66 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days, but the humidity is higher at 85%. For more detailed insights, you can check Christchurch weather in July.
December weather tends to be warmer than that of August, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), compared to August, which has a cooler range of 1°C (35°F) to 16°C (62°F). Additionally, December experiences more rainfall, with 81 mm (3.2 in) falling over 11 days, whereas August has only 46 mm (1.8 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in August at 82%, while December sits at 75%. For more detailed information on the climate during this period, you can check Christchurch weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, December offers notably warmer temperatures, with average highs reaching 26°C (78°F) compared to September's maximum of 18°C (65°F). The minimum temperature in December is also higher at 9°C (48°F), while September sees cooler nights averaging 3°C (37°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days, compared to September's 46 mm (1.8 in) on 8 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in December at 75%, whereas September has a higher humidity of 82%. For a closer look at September's weather specifics, you can visit Christchurch weather in September.
December and October present distinct weather patterns, characterized by variations in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures are milder, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), reaching a maximum of 26°C (78°F). This month also sees increased precipitation, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over approximately 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, beginning with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and averaging 12°C (53°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). Precipitation in October is less, at 56 mm (2.2 in), over about 10 days, with a slightly higher humidity at 79%. For more detailed information on October weather, visit Christchurch weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be slightly warmer and wetter. The average temperature in December reaches 16°C (61°F), with maximums soaring to 26°C (78°F), while November experiences a lower average of 14°C (57°F) and maximums of 23°C (74°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, accumulating 81 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days compared to November's 68 mm (2.7 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 75% and November slightly higher at 77%. For more details, you can explore Christchurch weather in November.
In December, Christchurch experiences a delightful shift in weather, as temperatures rise and the city vibrates with the warmth of summer. With an average temperature significantly higher than the cooler months, residents and visitors alike enjoy the increased daylight and outdoor activities. However, it's not without its quirks; December sees a notable amount of precipitation with around eleven rainy days, making humidity levels rise. This combination of warmth and moisture creates a vibrant atmosphere, setting December apart from the earlier months of the year. For a deeper dive into the region's climate dynamics throughout the seasons, visit Christchurch Climate.