Christchurch Weather in December
New Zealand · Oceanic climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
December in Christchurch sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 12.3°C (54.1°F) to a high of 20.0°C (68.0°F), with a mean of 16.0°C (60.8°F). Compared to the annual average of 12.4°C (54.3°F), this month is 3.6°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 82.8mm, making it approximately 27.0mm wetter than the monthly average of 56.0mm. The city receives an average of 10.5 hours of sunshine per day during December, with relative humidity averaging 71.2%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 23.1 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Christchurch, with wetter-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Christchurch's oceanic climate is one of the most consistently pleasant in New Zealand. I've studied the data and found that the city experiences warm summers and cool winters, with moderate rainfall year-round. The best time for visiting is December to March, when the temperatures are warmest and the city's garden attractions are in full bloom.
December vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | November | December | January |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 13.9°C (57.0°F) | 16.0°C (60.8°F) | 17.2°C (63.0°F) |
| Rainfall | 63.0mm | 82.8mm | 32.3mm |
| Sunshine | 10.8 hrs | 10.5 hrs | 12.0 hrs |
| Humidity | 72.2% | 71.2% | 70.6% |
| Wind | 23.2 km/h | 23.1 km/h | 24.1 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 16.4 | 17.0 | 13.4 |
Seasonal Context
December falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Christchurch in December, the data indicates favorable conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Christchurch in December?
The average temperature in Christchurch during December ranges from 12.3°C (54.1°F) to 20.0°C (68.0°F), with a mean of 16.0°C (60.8°F).
How much does it rain in Christchurch in December?
Christchurch receives an average of 82.8mm of precipitation in December, spread across approximately 17.0 rainy days.
What should I pack for Christchurch in December?
Based on December weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella.
Is December a good time to visit Christchurch?
December is a good time to visit Christchurch, with comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall.
Other Months for Christchurch
Cities with Similar December Climate (Oceanic)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: -43.53°, 172.63°. Timezone: Pacific/Auckland. Last updated: 2026-07-30.