Last updated: August 31, 2025
December in Palmerston North, New Zealand brings a delightful mix of warm temperatures and moderate rainfall. With daily highs reaching a pleasant 25°C (78°F) and an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), residents and visitors can enjoy the vibrant summer atmosphere. However, the weather can shift, with nighttime lows dipping to 6°C (42°F). This month typically sees about 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation over 14 days, contributing to a humid environment with an average humidity of 75%. Whether basking in the sun or experiencing a refreshing shower, December offers a dynamic and engaging weather experience in this charming city.
In Palmerston North during December, the temperatures begin to reflect the height of the southern hemisphere's summer, with a pleasant range that invites outdoor activities. The month starts with a minimum temperature of 6°C (42°F), gradually warming up to an average of 17°C (63°F) and peaking at a comfortable 25°C (78°F). This trend showcases a significant shift from the cooler temperatures of the preceding months, making December an ideal time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the region's lush landscapes and vibrant outdoor events. The consistent warmth marks a delightful transition, hinting at the sun-filled days to come.
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, December marks a significant increase in precipitation, with an average of 134 mm (5.3 in) falling over 14 days. This notable rise sets December apart as one of the wetter months of the year, following a pattern where rainfall gradually escalates from the previous months. After starting the year with relatively dry January and February conditions, the city experiences a steady uptick, culminating in the summer rains of late spring and early summer. The consistent increase in precipitation not only enhances the lush greenery that characterizes the region but also highlights a trend of seasonal variation that keeps the local atmosphere vibrant and dynamic.
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, December brings a return to a more moderate humidity level, registering at 75%. This is a notable decrease from the higher readings observed in the preceding months, particularly June and July, when humidity peaked at 83%. As the year winds down, December’s figures reflect a trend of gradually declining humidity that began in October. With humidity levels consistently above 75% from May through November, December’s shift suggests a transition towards the drier summer season. This fluctuation not only underscores the region's varied climate but also sets the stage for warm, inviting summer days ahead.
In December, Palmerston North, New Zealand, experiences its highest UV Index of the year, soaring to 13, categorized as extreme. This intense level of UV radiation means that even brief exposure can lead to sunburn, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following the trend established in January and February, the December UV conditions encourage vigilance among residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the need for sun protection. A notable drop occurs in April and May, where the UV Index decreases significantly, but as summer approaches, the challenges of UV exposure return sharply in November and December. For detailed UV protection information, visit Palmerston North UV Index.
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In December, Palmerston North basks in an impressive 325 hours of sunshine, marking it as the sunniest month of the year. This vibrant increase in daylight is a delightful contrast to the cooler, cloudier winter months, where sunshine dips to a mere 167 hours in June. As summer approaches, the trend of increasing sunshine is evident, with November already showcasing a significant 302 hours. The jump to December's totals not only enhances outdoor activities but also elevates the festive spirit in the city. As the year wraps up, residents and visitors alike can revel in the warmth and brightness that December offers, setting the stage for a joyful start to the New Year.
In Palmerston North, December marks a transition from the more temperate months of the year, but the likelihood of sunny weather is relatively low compared to its summer peak, with only a 27% chance of sunshine. This figure reflects a notable decrease from the milder averages seen in earlier months, such as November's 37% and shows a significant dip from the summer months of January and February, which boast a consistent 43% chance of sun. As the year winds down, residents can expect a mix of cloudy days and occasional breaks of sunny weather, serving as a reminder that December, while officially a summer month, still carries the unpredictability of spring's end and autumn's approach. Overall, those looking for consistent sunshine may need to temper their expectations as festive season plans unfold under a sometimes overcast sky.
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, December brings a delightful 14 hours of daylight, echoing the long days of both January and November. This peak in daylight duration signifies the height of summer, providing ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and bask in the warm sun. As the year progresses from March to May, there is a noticeable decline in daylight, with hours dwindling to just 9 by mid-winter in June, July, and August. However, as spring approaches in September and October, the daylight hours begin to increase again. This rhythmic pattern not only highlights the seasonal shifts but also showcases the vibrant essence of each month, making December a particularly appealing time for residents and visitors alike.
In December, Palmerston North experiences a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph). This noticeable uptick compared to the calmer months of January and February signals a transition into the summer season, where winds tend to pick up slightly. Observing the data, it’s clear that throughout the year, the wind patterns fluctuate, with September reaching a peak at 5.0 m/s (11 mph) before tapering off into the more moderate speeds seen in the heart of winter. As December arrives, the winds turn increasingly consistent, offering a refreshing yet manageable air flow, perfect for outdoor activities or simply enjoying the vibrant summer landscape of this charming New Zealand city.
Weather in Palmerston North varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Palmerston North, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather in Palmerston North features temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences higher precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) across 14 days, contributing to a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, January sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 63 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, while humidity remains stable at 75%. For more detailed information, visit Palmerston North weather in January.
In comparing the weather conditions of December and February, we find that both months offer relatively mild temperatures but with notable differences. December's temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, it experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over approximately 14 days, resulting in a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, February tends to be slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and having an average of 18°C (65°F). February also sees significantly less rainfall, with a total of 66 mm (2.6 in) over just 7 days and a slightly higher humidity level of 76%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Palmerston North weather in February.
December and March in Palmerston North exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing minimums around 6°C (42°F-43°F) and average temperatures hovering at 17°C (63°F). However, March tends to be slightly warmer, with a maximum temperature of 26°C (80°F) compared to December's 25°C (78°F). Precipitation levels also differ notably; December sees significantly more rainfall at 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, whereas March receives only 82 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days. Despite these differences, humidity remains consistent at 75% for both months. For more details, you can check the Palmerston North weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, both months experience similar maximum temperatures, reaching up to 25°C (78°F). However, December tends to be slightly warmer on average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F), while April's temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to an average of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is relatively close between the two months as well, with December receiving 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days and April experiencing 118 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with April being marginally higher at 77% compared to December's 75%. For more detailed insights into what to expect during this transitional period, check out Palmerston North weather in April.
In December, the weather boasts a more moderate temperature range, with lows of 6°C (42°F) and highs reaching up to 25°C (78°F), resulting in a pleasant average of 17°C (63°F). This month also experiences relatively high precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over about 14 days, coupled with a humidity level of 75%. Conversely, May presents cooler conditions with a minimum temperature dropping to 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 21°C (69°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). It also sees less rainfall, with 78 mm (3.1 in) spread across 10 days, although humidity is slightly higher at 82%. For more specific details about May weather, you can refer to Palmerston North weather in May.
In December, the weather tends to be significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), and an average of 17°C (63°F). With 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation over 14 days, the humidity sits at a comfortable 75%. In contrast, June experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging just 10°C (51°F). The rainfall in June is less intense, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) across the same number of rainy days, but the humidity is slightly higher at 83%. For more details on June weather, visit the following link: Palmerston North weather in June.
December and July present quite a contrast in weather conditions. December enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average high of 25°C (78°F), while July's temperatures are significantly cooler, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average maximum of only 17°C (62°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, compared to July's 100 mm (3.9 in) under similar conditions. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in December at 75%, compared to July's relatively higher humidity of 83%. For more detailed information on July weather, visit Palmerston North weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, it is evident that December is considerably warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), while August experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). December also sees higher overall humidity at 75%, compared to August's 81%, indicating a somewhat drier feeling during the warmer month. In terms of precipitation, December has 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, whereas August registers 106 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, suggesting more frequent, albeit lighter, rainfall in August. For a detailed overview, you can check Palmerston North weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, it is evident that December generally offers warmer temperatures, with an average of 17°C (63°F) compared to September's 11°C (52°F). Additionally, the maximum temperatures in December can reach up to 25°C (78°F), while September sees a peak of only 20°C (68°F). However, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, compared to September's 114 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days. Humidity is slightly lower in December at 75%, compared to 80% in September, adding to the generally more comfortable feel of the warmer month. For more details about September weather, visit Palmerston North weather in September.
The weather in December is generally warmer than in October, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), compared to October's range of 2°C (36°F) to 21°C (71°F). December also sees higher precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, while October has 103 mm (4.1 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, but October is slightly more humid at 79% compared to December's 75%. For more details about October weather, check out Palmerston North weather in October.
In comparing December and November weather, December tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), while November has a lower average with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Additionally, December experiences higher precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, compared to November's 85 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 75% and November slightly higher at 78%. For a more detailed look at the weather, you can check Palmerston North weather in November.
As December rolls into Palmerston North, the weather begins to shift, offering a delightful contrast to the chillier months. With warmer maximum temperatures and a significant increase in humidity, residents and visitors can expect a more temperate and often muggier climate during this time. Although December experiences a fair share of precipitation, with rain spreading across several days, these showers are often interspersed with sunny spells, perfect for outdoor activities. Overall, December heralds the arrival of summer, bringing the promise of longer days and vibrant landscapes, distinctly setting it apart from the cooler months. For a deeper dive into the seasonal trends, explore Palmerston North Climate.