Last updated: August 31, 2025
December in Wellington, New Zealand showcases a mild and damp climate that sets the stage for the summer season. With maximum temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), the weather invites outdoor activities, albeit with careful consideration of the 81% humidity that permeates the air. Visitors can expect 101 mm (4.0 in) of rainfall spread across approximately 11 wet days, making it wise to carry a light rain jacket while exploring the city's vibrant attractions. Whether you're soaking in the lush landscapes or enjoying the bustling waterfront, December in Wellington offers a blend of cool breezes and necessary refreshment, perfect for embracing the season.
In December, Wellington, New Zealand, basks in the warmth of the Southern Hemisphere summer, with temperatures gradually rising as the month progresses. The average temperature hovers around a comfortable 16°C (61°F), while daily highs can reach up to 20°C (68°F), allowing for pleasant outdoor activities. Nights are mild, with minimum temperatures dipping to about 10°C (51°F). This steady trend of increasing warmth is a delightful precursor to the sweltering January heat, making December a fantastic time to enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and scenic landscapes.
As December arrives in Wellington, New Zealand, the weather takes on a characteristic rhythm, showcasing a notable increase in precipitation. With an average of 101 mm (4.0 in) of rain spread over 11 days, the month often feels both lush and invigorating. This marks a continuation of the wetter trends established in the previous months, such as April's notable 104 mm and July's peak at 108 mm. Interestingly, December's precipitation aligns closely with the winter months, indicating a shift away from the relative dryness of earlier in the season. As the year concludes, the consistent rainfall contributes to Wellington's vibrant greenery, setting a picturesque backdrop for summer celebrations.
In December, Wellington experiences a humidity level of 81%, a slight dip compared to the wetter months preceding it. This month marks the transition into the warmest season, where daily temperatures rise but the air retains a notable level of moisture. Throughout the year, humidity in Wellington typically hovers around the 80% mark, with a gradual increase peaking in the colder months of June and July at 86%. As the year progresses into summer, humidity remains relatively stable, creating a distinctive pattern that reflects the city's coastal climate. Thus, while December's humidity is slightly lower than earlier months, it continues to maintain the characteristic moist feel of Wellington, contributing to the lush landscapes that define the region.
In December, Wellington experiences a notable peak in UV radiation, reflected in the UV Index soaring to 13, categorizing exposure as extreme with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. This intensity mirrors the summer months of January and February, where the UV Index also reaches the same critical level, prompting residents and visitors alike to take extra precautions under the sun. As the calendar transitions into the cooler months, the UV Index gradually declines, demonstrating a trend of diminishing solar intensity; it drops to 9 by March, and continues to fall through autumn and winter. For a detailed overview and actionable insights on how to stay safe under the sun, check out Wellington UV Index.
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As December unfolds in Wellington, New Zealand, the city basks in a radiant glow, with an impressive 336 hours of sunshine, the highest of the year. This peak in sunlight embraces the vibrant summer atmosphere, in stark contrast to the 169 hours seen in June, the darkest month. Following a trend of increasing daylight from the earlier months, December's sunshine reflects a gradual rise that begins in spring's 250 hours of September and climbs steadily through the warmer months. This beautiful balance of light showcases Wellington's transformation from the cooler, cloudier days of winter, culminating in a sun-soaked climax that invites both locals and visitors to revel in outdoor festivities.
In Wellington, New Zealand, December brings a modest 38% chance of sunny weather, suggesting that while the festive month enjoys the arrival of summer, clear skies aren't guaranteed. This percentage marks a continuation of a downward trend from the more sunlit months of January and February, which boast chances of sunshine at 61% and 48%, respectively. Interestingly, December's sunshine likelihood slightly exceeds the cooler months of October and November, hinting at a gradual increase in brightness as the region transitions into summer. Overall, while you might find yourself basking in the sun on certain days, it's wise to keep an umbrella handy as Wellington's weather can be quite unpredictable.
In Wellington, New Zealand, the daylight duration experiences a captivating shift throughout the year, with December standing out at an impressive 15 hours of daylight. Following the bright peaks of November at 14 hours and January's longest days, daylight begins to gradually wane into summer’s close. As we transition into autumn, hours decrease gradually, with March offering a comfortable 12 hours, before plummeting to 10 hours in the cooler months of April and May. The trend stabilizes through winter, particularly in June and July, where daylight lingers around 9 hours. Fortunately, the cycle begins anew in August, inching back up to 10 hours and slowly ascending to 12 hours by September. Overall, Wellington's daylight patterns beautifully reflect the earth's seasonal rhythm, culminating in the sun-soaked days of December that invigorate the summer spirit.
As December dawns in Wellington, New Zealand, the average wind speed hovers around 7.5 m/s (17 mph), capturing the essence of the region's breezy climate. Interestingly, December's winds reflect a subtle trend from the higher gusts of the preceding months, particularly from September, which boasted an impressive 8.9 m/s (20 mph). This slight dip signifies a seasonal shift as summer approaches, yet the winds remain consistent, echoing the city’s reputation as “Windy Wellington.” The prevailing breezes in December create a lively atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities, while still hinting at the stronger gusts that define the winter months ahead.
Weather in Wellington varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Wellington, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between December and January, one can observe a gradual warming trend. December typically features temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). It also experiences more rainfall, with 101 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and humidity levels hover around 81%.
In contrast, January tends to be slightly warmer, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), resulting in an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). Rainfall significantly decreases to 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 6 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Wellington weather in January.
December and February in Wellington exhibit a mild climate, though there are noticeable differences between the two months. December sees a minimum temperature of 10°C (51°F) with an average of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). It also experiences higher precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) across 11 days, and the humidity stands at 81%. In contrast, February brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). February is also drier, with only 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain over 6 days and a humidity level of 79%. Overall, February tends to be warmer and less wet compared to December. For more details, you can check Wellington weather in February.
In December, the weather is characterized by mild temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F), resulting in an average of 16°C (61°F). This month experiences relatively high humidity at 81% and notable precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 11 days. In contrast, March presents a similar average temperature of 16°C (61°F) but with a slightly higher minimum temperature of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation in March is lower at 76 mm (3.0 in), occurring over 9 days, and humidity is slightly reduced at 79%. For more details, you can check out Wellington weather in March.
December and April exhibit relatively similar weather patterns, although there are notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences around 101 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, April sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is marginally higher at 104 mm (4.1 in) across 10 days, while humidity remains fairly consistent at 80%. For more detailed information, check out Wellington weather in April.
In December, the weather is generally warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while May sees cooler conditions with average temperatures from 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F). December also experiences higher humidity at 81%, compared to May's 84%. Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December, with 101 mm (4.0 in) spread over 11 days, whereas May receives 88 mm (3.5 in) during the same number of days. For a detailed look at May's weather patterns, you can visit Wellington weather in May.
December and June showcase contrasting weather patterns despite similar precipitation levels. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (68°F), creating a mild and pleasant atmosphere. In contrast, June experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of only 16°C (61°F), contributing to a chillier environment. Additionally, June has slightly higher humidity at 86%, compared to December's 81%. Both months see significant rainfall, with December having 101 mm over 11 days and June experiencing 101 mm over 12 days. For a more detailed look at June weather, you can check out Wellington weather in June.
In December, the weather is noticeably warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), creating a pleasant climate for outdoor activities. In contrast, July is cooler, with temperatures typically reaching a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average low of 7°C (44°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with December recording 101 mm (4.0 in) over 11 days and July slightly wetter at 108 mm (4.3 in) over 13 days. Additionally, July has a higher humidity level at 86%, compared to December's 81%. For more detailed insights into July's conditions, you can visit Wellington weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, December presents a milder climate overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while August is cooler, with temperatures between 6°C (43°F) and 14°C (57°F). Additionally, December experiences more rainfall with 101 mm (4.0 in) over 11 days, compared to August's 89 mm (3.5 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with December at 81% and August slightly higher at 83%. For more detailed information on August’s weather, you can check Wellington weather in August.
In December, the weather is notably warmer than in September, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). In contrast, September sees cooler temperatures, with a range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 11 days, while September experiences 85 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall over 12 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with December at 81% and September at 83%. For a more detailed look at September's weather, check out Wellington weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while October's temperatures are cooler, averaging between 6°C (44°F) and 16°C (61°F). Additionally, December experiences higher precipitation levels at 101 mm (4.0 in) compared to October's 72 mm (2.8 in), although both months share the same number of rainy days at 11. Interestingly, humidity remains quite similar, with December at 81% and October slightly higher at 82%. For more details about October weather, you can visit Wellington weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December generally experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 16°C (61°F) compared to November's 14°C (57°F). Additionally, December sees a higher maximum temperature of 20°C (68°F) versus November's 18°C (64°F), although both months have similar minimum temperatures. Precipitation levels also rise in December, reaching 101 mm (4.0 in) across 11 days, compared to November's 73 mm (2.9 in) over 10 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with December at 81% and November at 82%. For a more detailed look at November weather, visit Wellington weather in November.
As December unfolds in Wellington, the city experiences milder temperatures compared to the chill of winter months, with an inviting average of around 16°C (61°F). This month's weather showcases a blend of warmth and humidity, reaching about 81%, making the atmosphere feel pleasantly balmy. However, it also brings an increase in rainfall, with precipitation on roughly 11 days, totaling around 101 mm (4.0 in). This contrasts sharply with the drier winter months and underscores the importance of being prepared for occasional showers while enjoying longer daylight hours. For a deeper dive into how December stacks up against other months, explore Wellington Climate.