Last updated: August 31, 2025
December in Nelson, New Zealand offers a delightful mix of warm temperatures and refreshing summer rains. With daily maximums reaching up to 24°C (76°F) and an average temperature of 16°C (61°F), the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. However, residents and visitors should prepare for some rain, as the month sees about 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 13 days, contributing to a humidity level of 81%. This vibrant climate sets the stage for lush landscapes and local festivities, making December a lively time to experience the beauty of Nelson.
In December, Nelson, New Zealand, begins to embrace the warmth of summer, with temperatures showcasing a pleasant trend that appeals to both locals and visitors alike. The month features a minimum temperature of 8°C (47°F) and a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F), culminating in a delightful maximum of 24°C (76°F). This gradual rise from the cooler months not only signifies the onset of longer days and vibrant outdoor activities but also offers a remarkable contrast to the cooler temperatures of earlier months, such as the crisp 5°C (41°F) in April. As the year draws to a close, Nelson's December climate invites exploration, relaxation, and enjoyment of its stunning natural beauty under the warm sun.
In December, Nelson, New Zealand, experiences a significant uptick in rainfall, with 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 13 days. This marks a continuation of the trend observed in the preceding months, where the late spring and early summer seasons see an increase in precipitation, peaking in July with its highest monthly total of 165 mm. December's rainfall plays a crucial role in nurturing the region's lush landscapes, setting the tone for the hotter summer months ahead. As the year draws to a close, the consistent precipitation not only supports agriculture but also enhances the vibrant natural beauty that Nelson is famed for, bridging the gap between the wetter winter months and the drier stretches to come.
In December, Nelson, New Zealand experiences an average humidity level of 81%, marking a slight dip from the higher humidity of 84% in May and 86% in June and July. This month sits comfortably in the mid-range, reflecting a gradual decrease as the city transitions from the cooler, wetter months towards the warmer summer season. Interestingly, the humidity levels have remained relatively stable throughout the year, generally hovering around the 80% mark. As Nelson heads into summer, the moderate humidity adds to the lush landscapes that define this vibrant region, making it an inviting destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
In Nelson, New Zealand, the UV Index in December reaches a striking 13, falling into the extreme exposure category, akin to the readings observed in both January and February. This trend emphasizes the peak of summer, where outdoor enthusiasts must be particularly vigilant, as the burn time shrinks to just 10 minutes. Transitioning through the months, from the moderate levels of May and August to the high readings in September and November, there's a clear pattern of increasing intensity during the summer months. With such potent UV levels, understanding the risks and taking necessary precautions is vital for both residents and visitors alike. For ongoing updates on UV safety, check out Nelson UV Index.
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December in Nelson, New Zealand, shines brightly with an impressive 336 hours of sunshine, marking it as the sunniest month of the year. This peak follows a gradual ascent in daylight hours, beginning with 303 hours in November. The trend showcases a clear seasonal shift, as the sunshine hours have significantly decreased from the 290 hours recorded in January to a low of 178 hours in June. As the year progresses, Nelson experiences a resurgence of light, with a consistent increase from the winter months, ultimately culminating in this vibrant December. This abundance of sunshine sets the perfect stage for outdoor activities and the exploration of the region's stunning landscapes.
In December, Nelson, New Zealand, experiences a 37% chance of sunny weather, which is modestly lower compared to the preceding months. After an optimistic uptick in sun chances through April and May, the percentages gradually decline leading up to December, where it stands slightly above half of what it reaches in January. This trend suggests that while December offers some sunshine, residents and visitors should be prepared for a mix of weather, with the potential for clouds and rain lingering as summer unfolds. The overall pattern indicates that early summer may not deliver the abundance of sunshine one might expect, nudging people to enjoy the sunny spells whenever they appear.
In Nelson, New Zealand, December ushers in the longest days of the year, with an impressive 15 hours of daylight illuminating the landscape. This peak in sunlight follows a gradual decline from the summer months, where daylight reaches its maximum in January at 14 hours. As the months progress into winter, daylight hours steadily diminish, hitting a low of 9 hours from May through July. However, spring brings a gentle resurgence, with day lengths gradually increasing again. This rhythm of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also enriches the experience of outdoor activities in Nelson, as residents and visitors alike relish the vibrant, sunlit days during December.
As December unfolds in Nelson, New Zealand, the winds pick up slightly, averaging 3.2 m/s (7 mph), a gentle reminder of the region's breezy summer. This increase in wind speed follows a consistent trend seen throughout the year, where the average gradually rises from the calmer days of autumn. From the breezy whispers of summer to the gentle gusts of winter, Nelson's winds tend to fluctuate modestly, creating a backdrop of refreshing air that enhances the charm of its coastal landscapes. With December's winds aligning closely with the earlier months of spring, picturesque outdoor activities become even more enjoyable, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor the soothing embrace of nature.
Weather in Nelson varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Nelson, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January present a noticeable shift in weather patterns. December typically offers warmer days, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), but it also experiences higher precipitation, measuring 145 mm (5.7 inches) over about 13 days. In contrast, January sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), but significantly less rainfall, totaling 72 mm (2.8 inches) over just 8 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with December at 81% and January slightly lower at 79%. For a detailed look at January weather specifically, you can visit Nelson weather in January.
December and February both boast mild temperatures, with December's range spanning from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), while February sees slightly warmer temperatures, ranging from 9°C (49°F) to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is notably higher in December, with 145 mm (5.7 in) spread over 13 days, compared to February's 86 mm (3.4 in) over just 8 days. Humidity levels remain relatively comparable, sitting at 81% in December and dropping slightly to 79% in February. For a more detailed look at what to expect in February, you can check Nelson weather in February.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), maintaining an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees about 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, with a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, March experiences slightly warmer minimum temperatures at 9°C (48°F) and a similar average of 16°C (61°F), but with a slightly lower maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is also reduced, totaling 124 mm (4.9 in) over 11 days and a humidity level of 79%. For a more detailed look at March weather specifically, you can visit Nelson weather in March.
In comparing the weather between December and April, December tends to be somewhat warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F). In contrast, April features cooler temperatures, with averages between 5°C (41°F) and 20°C (69°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December seeing 145 mm (5.7 in) and April slightly lower at 143 mm (5.6 in), each occurring over about 13 rainy days. Humidity levels are comparable as well, hovering around 81% in December and 80% in April. For more detailed information about April weather, you can visit Nelson weather in April.
December and May showcase distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition between seasons. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a warm average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F), making it generally more comfortable than May, which has cooler temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to an average of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 145 mm (5.7 in) across 13 days, while May sees just slightly more rain at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with December at 81% and May a touch higher at 84%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns in May, you can check out this link: Nelson weather in May.
December and June weather present a striking contrast in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a maximum of 24°C (76°F). This month sees around 145 mm (5.7 in) of rainfall over approximately 13 days, with humidity at 81%. Conversely, June experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to 2°C (36°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), while maximums reach only 16°C (60°F). The month has less precipitation, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over about 10 days, and slightly higher humidity at 86%. For a detailed view of June weather specifics, check Nelson weather in June.
In December, temperatures are generally milder, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees about 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 13 days, maintaining a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, July experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while the average is only 8°C (47°F). Although July is slightly wetter with 165 mm (6.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, it has a higher humidity of 86%. For a closer look at the weather during July in Nelson, you can check out Nelson weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, December is generally warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), while August's temperatures are cooler, averaging a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). December also experiences higher humidity levels at 81% compared to August's 83%. In terms of precipitation, December sees slightly more rainfall with 145 mm (5.7 in) over 13 days, whereas August has 130 mm (5.1 in) across 14 days. For a closer look at how the weather typically behaves during August, check out Nelson weather in August.
December weather tends to be milder and more comfortable compared to September, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F). In contrast, September experiences cooler temperatures, with averages fluctuating between a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F). Although both months experience precipitation, December has slightly more, averaging 145 mm (5.7 in) over 13 days, while September sees about 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 81% and September slightly higher at 83%. For more details on September weather, visit Nelson weather in September.
In December, the weather is notably warmer than in October, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), compared to October's range of 4°C (39°F) to 19°C (66°F). Additionally, December experiences slightly more precipitation, with 145 mm (5.7 in) over 13 days, while October averages 120 mm (4.7 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with December at 81% and October at 82%. For more details on October weather patterns, you can refer to Nelson weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), whereas November has an average temperature range of 6°C (43°F) to 23°C (74°F). Precipitation also increases in December, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in) over 13 days, compared to November's 118 mm (4.7 in) during the same number of days. Humidity remains relatively stable, with December at 81% and November at 82%. To learn more about the specifics of November weather in the area, you can visit Nelson weather in November.
December in Nelson brings a refreshing shift, with warmer temperatures that invite outdoor activities and festivities. As the month transitions into summer, the average warmth creates a pleasant atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the cooler, often rainier months that precede it. While December does see some rainfall, the overall climate remains relatively mild and vibrant, fostering lush landscapes. With humidity levels peaking, it's a time when the beauty of nature flourishes, making it an ideal time to explore the region. To learn more about the unique weather patterns throughout the year, check out Nelson Climate.