Last updated: August 31, 2025
In December, Picton, New Zealand experiences a delightful summer climate characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 25°C (77°F) and a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F). The nights can be cooler, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 8°C (46°F). While the season brings warmth, it also features a moderate amount of rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over an average of 12 days, contributing to the region's lush greenery. Humidity levels hover around a comfortable 81%, enhancing the overall tropical ambiance, making it a perfect time for visitors to explore the beautiful landscapes and vibrant waterfront of Picton.
In Picton, New Zealand, December ushers in the warmth of summer, with temperatures typically ranging from a pleasant 8°C (46°F) at night to a comfortable 25°C (77°F) during the day, resulting in an average of 16°C (61°F). This is a continuation of the warming trend seen since spring, as temperatures have gradually elevated from November's mild conditions. With highs peaking at 25°C, residents and visitors can look forward to ideal weather for outdoor activities and soaking in the stunning natural surroundings. As December unfolds, the climate reflects a notable transition towards warmer, inviting days, marking a perfect time for exploration and enjoyment in this picturesque coastal town.
In December, Picton, New Zealand, experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 12 days of rainfall. This marks one of the wetter months of the year, following a rain-drenched winter, where cumulative precipitation peaks in April and July at 108 mm (4.2 in). As the year draws to a close, the summer months begin to show a pattern of heightened rainfall; December's totals serve as a bridge to the typically wetter autumn months, establishing a transition in the region's weather dynamics. The consistent rainfall pattern throughout the latter half of the year signifies the prevalent maritime influence on Picton’s climate, shaping lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
In December, Picton, New Zealand experiences a humidity level of 81%, which is a slight dip from the more humid months leading up to it. Throughout the year, the humidity trends show a gradual increase from 79% in January to a peak of 86% during the winter months of June and July. As the year progresses, humidity generally rises, reflecting the wetter conditions typical of New Zealand's climate. Following the peak, levels remain relatively stable, with December marking a transition into the warmer months, where humidity begins to gently decrease. Overall, the data indicates a consistent pattern of high humidity, underscoring Picton's marine climate influences.
In December, Picton, New Zealand, experiences an intense UV Index of 13, categorizing it as extreme and resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV exposure continues from the previous months of January and February, indicating a peak in sun intensity before the summer solstice. Following this pattern, the UV Index gradually decreases throughout the year, dropping to a moderate 4 in May, then falling even further to a low 2 in June and July. As the seasons shift, it's crucial for sun safety awareness, particularly during the summer months when the risks are highest. For more detailed information, visit the Picton UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Picton, New Zealand, is a radiant gem in the summer calendar, boasting an impressive 346 hours of sunshine. This influx of sunlight marks the highest monthly total, perfectly contrasting the year’s gloomy winter months, like June with just 179 hours. As the year progresses, there's a clear trend of increasing brightness, beginning in November with 316 hours, and culminating in December's abundant warmth. This delightful shift invites both locals and visitors to bask in the sunny days, making December an ideal time for exploring the stunning surroundings or simply enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of this picturesque coastal town.
December in Picton, New Zealand sees a 36% chance of sunny weather, placing it among the lower probabilities for the year. As the holiday season approaches, this figure is a slight dip from November's 36% and significantly lower than the summery highs of January at 57% and February at 46%. The trend shows that while summer months bask in more sun, the lead-up to Christmas can feel a bit more overcast. Thus, while December offers festive cheer, it might also bring a mix of clouds alongside seasonal celebrations, encouraging visitors to pack both sunshine and drizzles in their holiday gear.
In Picton, New Zealand, December marks a delightful seasonal shift, basking under 15 hours of daylight—the longest of the year. Following the gradual decline through the autumn months, where daylight dipped to 10 hours in April, the days began to lengthen significantly from October onward. Notably, November brings back 14 hours, setting the stage for December's peak brightness. This trend highlights a vibrant summer atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the extended daylight for outdoor adventures and leisurely activities. As the year unfolds, Picton’s daylight hours illustrate a captivating cycle from the coziness of winter’s 9 hours to the lively summer days, creating a dynamic and inviting climate throughout the seasons.
As December rolls into Picton, New Zealand, the wind begins to shift, averaging a brisk 5.3 m/s (12 mph). This slight uptick in wind speed signals the transition into a more invigorating summer climate, contrasting the calmer breezes of the preceding months. Notably, December sees an increase from the breezy November days, which recorded an average of 5.9 m/s (13 mph), suggesting a gradual reprieve from the peak winds of September at 6.1 m/s (14 mph). This trend highlights a dynamic shift as the year draws to a close, bringing with it a refreshing vibrancy to the coastal air, perfect for seaside strolls and maritime adventures. With the winds of December, Picton balances excitement and serenity, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace its coastal charm.
Weather in Picton varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Picton, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures in Picton range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month is characterized by relatively high humidity at 81% and substantial rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days. By contrast, January sees a slight increase in temperatures, with minimums of 9°C (48°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 18°C (64°F). Rainfall decreases significantly to 36 mm (1.4 in) across just 6 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 79%. For more detailed information about January weather, you can visit Picton weather in January.
December and February present notably similar yet distinct weather characteristics. In December, the temperature ranges from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month also experiences relatively high precipitation levels of 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, coupled with humidity at 81%. In contrast, February warms slightly, featuring a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, February is drier, with precipitation dropping to 74 mm (2.9 in) over just 6 days and slightly lower humidity at 79%. For more details on February weather, visit Picton weather in February.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month sees significant rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 12 days, and the humidity levels are relatively high at 81%. In contrast, March maintains similar daytime temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), while the average remains at 16°C (61°F). However, March experiences less precipitation, recording only 71 mm (2.8 in) over 8 days, and slightly lower humidity at 79%. For more detailed information, check out Picton weather in March.
In December, the weather features a wider temperature range with minimums of 8°C (46°F) and maximums reaching up to 25°C (77°F), resulting in a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F). This month experiences slightly higher precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 12 days, and the humidity remains elevated at 81%. In contrast, April shows cooler temperatures, with minimums of 5°C (41°F) and maximums peaking at 21°C (71°F), leading to a lower average of 14°C (57°F). While precipitation increases slightly to 108 mm (4.2 in), it falls over fewer days, totaling 9 days, and the humidity is just a touch lower at 80%. For more details on the weather specifics in April, check out Picton weather in April.
December weather is generally warmer compared to May, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), while May experiences cooler temperatures, peaking at 19°C (67°F) and dipping to a minimum of 3°C (38°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation with 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, whereas May has slightly less, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. In terms of humidity, December is relatively humid at 81%, while May is slightly higher at 84%. For more details on weather conditions during this month, you can visit Picton weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, one can see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December boasts a milder climate with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F). In contrast, June sees cooler temperatures, with averages between 2°C (35°F) and 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is somewhat higher in December, with 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 12 days, compared to June's 81 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days. Interestingly, June also has slightly higher humidity at 86%, compared to December's 81%. For those interested in a closer look at the conditions in June, check out Picton weather in June.
In December, the weather is notably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). This month also sees a relatively high humidity level of 81% and experiences about 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, July offers much cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and peaking at 15°C (59°F), resulting in an average of 9°C (49°F). Although July has a similar amount of rainfall at 108 mm (4.3 in) over the same number of days, the humidity is slightly higher at 86%. For a deeper look at the July weather, you can refer to Picton weather in July.
December's weather is generally warmer than August's, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), compared to August's cooler range of 2°C (36°F) to 17°C (63°F). The humidity is relatively high in both months, with December at 81% and August slightly lower at 83%. While December experiences more precipitation overall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) across 12 days, August records less rainfall at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days. For more specific insights into August conditions, you can check Picton weather in August.
December weather tends to be milder and warmer compared to September. With minimum temperatures averaging around 8°C (46°F) and maximums reaching up to 25°C (77°F), December offers a more comfortable climate. In contrast, September sees cooler temperatures, with minimums around 3°C (37°F) and maximums only reaching 18°C (64°F). While both months experience a fair amount of precipitation, December has a slightly higher total of 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days compared to September's 87 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are similar in both months, with December averaging at 81% and September at 83%. For a closer look at September's weather patterns, check out Picton weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, December tends to be warmer and wetter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F). In contrast, October has cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 20°C (67°F), leading to a lower average of 12°C (55°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 104 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall over 12 days, compared to October's 80 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with December at 81% and October at 82%. For a detailed look at October weather, visit Picton weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be slightly warmer with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F) compared to November's average of 14°C (58°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach up to 25°C (77°F), surpassing November's peak of 22°C (73°F). December also sees more precipitation, measuring 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, while November records 81 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with December at 81% and November at 82%. For a closer look at November weather specifics, you can check out Picton weather in November.
As December rolls into Picton, the weather becomes noticeably warmer and more humid, providing a delightful contrast to the cooler months that precede it. With average temperatures rising and an increase in precipitation, the festive spirit of summer settles in, resulting in lush landscapes and vibrant outdoor activities. While December may bring some rain, it also ushers in longer days filled with sunshine, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the beauty of the season. For a deeper dive into what to expect throughout the year, check out Picton Climate.