New Zealand in December brings 15-22°C temperatures, 60-80mm rainfall, and high tourist crowds. Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect December trip to New Zealand — from weather patterns and costs to events and packing essentials.
What the Weather's Really Like
New Zealand in December averages 15-22°C with approximately 60-80mm of rainfall. Summer begins. Days are generally shorter but often clear. The weather makes December a popular but rewarding times to visit.
How Busy Is It?
Tourist levels are high in December. Expect higher accommodation prices and busier attractions — book at least 2-3 months ahead for popular spots.
Budget travelers should expect 20-40% higher costs compared to shoulder season.
What to Do
Top highlights: Summer begins, longest days, hiking season starts, beaches warm up.
December is particularly good for cultural experiences, museums, food tours, and indoor attractions with occasional outdoor days. The mild temperatures are perfect for walking tours and sightseeing without the heat exhaustion.
What to Bring
Essential packing list: Layers, sun protection, hiking boots, swimwear, insect repellent. Bring a good daypack for day trips and excursions.
The Verdict
Yes — December is popular for good reason, offering summer begins. Despite higher prices and bigger crowds, the weather and events make it worth the premium.
The Two Decembers: Why the First Three Weeks Beat the Christmas Crush
December in New Zealand is really two trips wearing one name, and the dividing line is roughly December 20, when the school summer break begins and domestic families pile onto the same roads, campsites and flights that overseas visitors already booked. Arrive in the first three weeks and you get genuine early-summer payoff without the worst of the squeeze; arrive for Christmas week and you are competing with the entire country for the same beach.
The other thing first-timers underestimate is that there is no single 'New Zealand summer' in December. Auckland sits around an average high near 20C with sunset close to 8:30pm, warm enough for the Pohutukawa, the crimson coastal tree that earns its 'Christmas tree' name when it peaks in late December. Queenstown runs cooler, with average highs around 15-16C, yet rewards you with daylight stretching past 9:15pm for long evenings on the lake.
The honest catch is the sun itself. New Zealand's summer UV index routinely reaches about 12, and can top 13 in the far north, near the top of the 'extreme' band because the country sits under thinner, cleaner air closest to the sun this month.
- Lock South Island lodging and Milford Sound cruises before mid-December.
- Treat shade and sunscreen as non-negotiable, not optional.
FAQ
What is the weather like in New Zealand in December?
Temperatures range from 15-22°C with about 60-80mm of rainfall. Summer begins.
Is December too crowded in New Zealand?
Crowd levels are high. Book accommodations and major attractions well in advance.
What should I pack for New Zealand in December?
Layers, sun protection, hiking boots, swimwear, insect repellent.
📅 Other months: New Zealand in March · New Zealand in February · New Zealand in January
Plan Your New Zealand Trip
More New Zealand guides: Best Time to Visit New Zealand · How Much Does a Trip to New Zealand Cost?
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.