Christchurch in December
December weather, climate averages, and packing tips.
December lands in the heart of summer in Christchurch, where the weather is warming up. Daytime highs average 20°C / 68°F, dropping to 12°C / 53°F at night.
Skies are often overcast, and you should be prepared for regular rainfall (approx. 13 wet days). Long days provide about 15.4 hours of light, giving you plenty of time for evening wandering.
How it compares to the rest of the year in Christchurch.
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
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Sunshine
- Daylight
- 15.4 hours
- UV index (max)
- 9
- Typical sun hours
- 05:43 – 21:04
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 13
- Cloud cover
- 64%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 69%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Christchurch?
Typical December days in Christchurch reach highs of 20°C (68°F) with nights around 11°C (52°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. It is among the wetter months, so it is wise to have some indoor backup plans or flexible activities.
What are temperatures like in December?
Daytime temperatures in December typically peak near 20°C (68°F), while nights drop to around 11°C (52°F). Expect mild afternoons and cool evenings.
How much does it rain in December?
Rainfall in December averages 58 mm (2.3 in) across roughly 13 days. Overall it is a quite rainy time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in December?
You can expect about 15 hours of daylight in December. Sunrise is typically around 05:43 and sunset near 21:04. Very long days give you plenty of daylight for exploring.
How strong is the sun in December?
UV levels frequently reach very high levels (around 9), so strong sun protection is essential, especially around midday.
Is it windy in December?
In December, average wind speeds are around 15 km/h (9 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 60 km/h (37 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.