Last updated: August 31, 2025
In December, Queenstown, New Zealand experiences a delightful blend of summer warmth and refreshing precipitation. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 22°C (72°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), the weather invites visitors to explore the stunning landscapes. However, the season also brings an average of 146 mm (5.7 in) of rainfall over 16 days, contributing to the region’s lush greenery. Humidity levels hover around 86%, adding a refreshing touch to the summer air. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Queenstown's December weather offers a vibrant backdrop for your getaway.
In December, Queenstown, New Zealand, ushers in the summer season with pleasantly mild temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures. The month typically sees minimum temperatures around 0°C (33°F), rising to comfortable highs of 22°C (72°F), while the average hovers at 11°C (52°F). This trend marks a significant warm-up compared to the cold grip of the winter months preceding it, such as the chill of July, where the maximum barely nudges 7°C (46°F). As the year winds down, visitors are treated to longer days and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for hiking, exploring, or simply enjoying the stunning landscapes that Queenstown has to offer.
In December, Queenstown experiences its wettest month of the year, with a notable precipitation total of 146 mm (5.7 inches) spread over 16 days. This increase in rainfall marks a shift from the relatively drier months preceding it, such as October and November, which receive 113 mm and 135 mm respectively. The trend in December's precipitation showcases the onset of summer storms, contributing to the lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems that the region is famous for. As visitors flock to this picturesque town, they're often greeted by refreshing showers that bring the surrounding mountains and lakes to life, making it a captivating time to explore.
In December, Queenstown experiences a consistent humidity level of 86%, mirroring the trends of the preceding months. This steady humidity is part of a broader pattern observed throughout the year, where levels remain relatively high, ranging from 85% to 88%. Notably, the winter months from June to August see the highest humidity readings, peaking at 88%, while the summer months maintain a close average, ensuring that Queenstown remains a picturesque, albeit slightly damp, destination. This moderate humidity not only enhances the lush landscapes but also plays a role in the region's famously dynamic weather, creating a unique environment that residents and visitors alike cherish.
In December, Queenstown, New Zealand experiences a highly intense UV Index of 13, categorizing it as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This marks a notable trend, as December follows a pattern of elevated UV levels seen throughout the earlier summer months, such as January and February, which also recorded extreme values. As we transition from the peak of summer, the UV Index tends to drop gradually, reaching lower levels in the autumn and winter months. However, December's robust UV exposure underscores the importance of sun protection during outdoor activities in this stunning alpine destination. For more details, visit Queenstown UV Index.
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December in Queenstown, New Zealand, shines brightly with a stunning 315 hours of sunshine, marking the peak of the summer season. This month not only outshines November's already impressive 294 hours, but also continues the general upward trend of increasing daylight as we move toward the year's end. With each passing month, Queenstown experiences a gradual increase in sunshine, particularly from October through December, contributing to a vibrant outdoor atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals alike. These sun-soaked days are perfect for exploring the breathtaking landscapes and engaging in thrilling adventures that Queenstown is famed for, making December a truly magical time in this stunning destination.
In Queenstown, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at 23%, reflecting a slight dip compared to the warmer months preceding it. As the year transitions from spring to summer, December typically offers less sunshine than January and February, which boast chances of 30% and 37% respectively. In fact, the trend shows a gradual decrease in sunny days as the seasons change, with winter months like June plummeting to a mere 13%. Although December may not be the sunniest month, visitors can still expect some bright interludes amidst the charming landscapes that this vibrant season offers.
In Queenstown, New Zealand, December brings a delightful return of long days, offering 15 hours of daylight that perfectly complements the summer atmosphere. This extended sunlight peak marks the culmination of a gradual transition that began in September, where daylight starts to lengthen, reaching an impressive 14 hours in November. Following December, the daylight begins to wane, with hours decreasing to 13 in January and continuing to drop through the autumn months, signaling a shift toward shorter, crisper days. The patterns reveal a clear seasonal rhythm, where vibrant summer days give way to the cozy embrace of winter as the year unfolds.
As December rolls into Queenstown, the winds begin to pick up slightly, echoing the festive spirit of summer. With an average wind speed of 1.9 m/s (4 mph), this month stands out as one of the breeziest of the year, reminiscent of the gentle gusts felt in January. Interestingly, a pattern emerges as we transition from the cooler months: the wind speeds gradually decline from April's 1.8 m/s down to a low of 1.2 m/s in July, before making a comeback in the latter part of the year. This cyclical trend indicates a shift from the chill of winter towards the warmth and excitement of summer, drawing both locals and visitors to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Queenstown under the invigorating December breezes.
Weather in Queenstown varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Queenstown, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather features a range of temperatures with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F), and peaking at 22°C (72°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, with 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain over 16 days, and humidity levels remain high at 86%. In contrast, January experiences slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of 1°C (33°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum reaching 25°C (78°F). Precipitation decreases to 110 mm (4.3 in) over just 11 days, while humidity remains consistent at 86%. For more details, check out Queenstown weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, it's evident that February tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 12°C (54°F) compared to December's average of 11°C (52°F). Both months have a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F), but February's maximum temperature is higher at 24°C (76°F), while December peaks at 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is moderately similar, with December receiving 146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days, while February has a bit less at 136 mm (5.4 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with December at 86% and February slightly lower at 85%. For more detailed insights, check out Queenstown weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be milder with average temperatures around 11°C (52°F), and highs reaching up to 22°C (72°F). However, it also experiences significant rainfall, accumulating 146 mm (5.7 in) over approximately 16 days, while humidity sits at a high 86%. In contrast, March sees slightly cooler conditions, with average temperatures remaining the same at 11°C (52°F) but experiencing lower maximums of 21°C (70°F) and minimums dipping to -3°C (27°F). Additionally, precipitation in March is less, at 96 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days, with humidity slightly rising to 87%. For more detailed information about March weather specifically, you can visit Queenstown weather in March.
In comparing the weather between December and April, December tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), while April features slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -4°C (26°F) and peaking at 20°C (68°F). December experiences more precipitation overall, averaging 146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days, compared to April's 110 mm (4.3 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, but April is slightly more humid at 88% compared to December's 86%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Queenstown weather in April.
In comparing the weather of December and May, December emerges as the warmer month, featuring an average temperature of 11°C (52°F) compared to May's cooler average of 4°C (40°F). December sees milder temperatures with maximum highs reaching 22°C (72°F), while May peaks at only 15°C (59°F). Despite being slightly cooler, May experiences a lower overall precipitation level at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, compared to December's 146 mm (5.7 in) across 16 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high in both months, with December at 86% and May slightly higher at 88%. For those interested in more details regarding May weather, check this link: Queenstown weather in May.
In comparing the weather between December and June, one can observe significant differences. December experiences milder temperatures, with averages around 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. In contrast, June is much colder, with average temperatures dropping to just 1°C (34°F) and highs reaching only 13°C (55°F). Additionally, December sees a higher level of precipitation at 146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days, while June’s rainfall is more modest at 72 mm (2.8 in) across 12 days. Both months have high humidity levels, though December's humidity sits slightly lower at 86% compared to June's 88%. For more detailed insights into the June weather, you can visit Queenstown weather in June.
December weather tends to be warmer and more pleasant compared to July. With average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), December enjoys higher temperatures and greater warmth than July, where temperatures typically range from -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 7°C (46°F). While both months experience similar precipitation patterns, with 16 rainy days and close amounts of rainfall—146 mm (5.7 in) in December versus 131 mm (5.2 in) in July—humidity levels are slightly higher in July at 88% compared to 86% in December. For more specifics about July, check out Queenstown weather in July.
December weather in Queenstown is generally milder than in August, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). In contrast, August temperatures are much colder, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F), an average of 1°C (35°F), and a maximum of only 10°C (50°F). While both months experience a similar number of precipitation days—16 in December and 15 in August—December sees a higher total precipitation of 146 mm (5.7 in) compared to August's 93 mm (3.7 in). Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 86%, while August stands at 87%. For more details, you can check out Queenstown weather in August.
The weather in December is generally milder than in September, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), compared to September’s lower temperatures of -9°C (16°F) to 13°C (56°F). Both months experience relatively high precipitation, with December recording 146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days and September seeing slightly more at 161 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days. Notably, the humidity remains consistent at 86% in both months, creating a damp atmosphere. For a detailed view of September weather trends, you can visit Queenstown weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, December presents milder conditions with average temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) during the day to a minimum of 0°C (33°F) at night, while October experiences cooler temperatures, with averages around 6°C (43°F) and a minimum dropping to -7°C (20°F). Precipitation is relatively high in both months, with December receiving 146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days, compared to October's 113 mm (4.5 in) across 15 days, yet both months share the same high humidity level of 86%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can check Queenstown weather in October.
December weather features a milder average temperature of 11°C (52°F), with minimum temperatures rising to 0°C (33°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (72°F). In comparison, November's weather shows slightly cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 9°C (49°F) and minimums dipping to -3°C (27°F), while maximums remain comparable at 23°C (73°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days and November slightly less at 135 mm (5.3 in) across 15 days. Humidity remains consistent at 86% for both months. For more detailed information on November weather, check out Queenstown weather in November.
In December, Queenstown transforms into a vibrant holiday destination, as the temperatures begin to warm up, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Unlike the chill of winter months, you can expect warmer days with temperatures rising to a pleasant 22°C (72°F), while evenings cool down but remain comfortable. However, be prepared for a significant chance of rain, with rainfall occurring on 16 days throughout the month—a noticeable shift compared to the drier summer months ahead. The high humidity of 86% can add to the feeling of warmth, enhancing the lush landscape that draws visitors from around the world. For a deeper look into seasonal variations, check out Queenstown Climate.