The Weather in New Zealand
Lying between 37 and 47 degrees south of the Tropic of Capricorn the two islands of New Zealand have a moderate, maritime climate. This means that the weather can change with great rapidity because the smaller landmass is surrounded by water and situated in the Roaring Forties. The prevailing winds blow from east to west and range from gentle breezes, which are welcome in summer's humidity, to winter's cold southerly from the Antarctic. The capital tends to be referred to as `Windy Wellington' by those living outside the area. Between cities a competitive spirit is found not only in sports but in the weather as well.
The warmest months are December, January, February and March with temperatures ranging between 20 and 33 degrees Celsius. June, July and August are winter's coldest months with temperatures from 5-15 degrees Celsius. The South Island is generally cooler than the North with snow appearing mainly on the mountains and surrounding areas of both islands.
- The North Island's rainfall is fairly evenly distributed and averages 1300mm per year. However the western side of the South Island has a rainfall of over 7500mm while the eastern side is protected by the Southern Alps mountain range and has an annual rainfall of only about 330mm.
- Because New Zealand is prone to earthquakes, which are very small and of little concern, it is advisable to take a few simple precautions. Information on what to do and how to prepare for an earthquake and other emergencies is inside the front or back cover of Yellow Pages or visit www.civildefence.govt.nz.
