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Weather Comparison

Christchurch vs Wellington

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Christchurch: 20°CWellington: 17°C305 km apart

December Weather: Christchurch vs Wellington

MetricChristchurchWellingtonBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer20°C (68°F)17°C (63°F)Christchurch
Average LowHigher is milder11°C (52°F)14°C (57°F)Wellington
Rain DaysFewer is drier10 days11 daysChristchurch
PrecipitationLess is drier60 mm68 mmChristchurch
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier12h/day12h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better23 km/h31 km/hChristchurch

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Christchurch edges ahead as the better destination in December. Christchurch offers 12 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Wellington sees 12 sunshine hours and 11 rain days.

Christchurch sits in the comfortable travel range at 20°C. Wellington is also comfortable at 17°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Christchurch is the stronger choice in December.

Temperature Comparison in December

Christchurch reaches an average high of 20°C (68°F) and drops to 11°C (52°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Wellington averages 17°C (63°F) for the high and 14°C (57°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Rainfall Comparison in December

Christchurch receives approximately 60 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Wellington sees 68 mm over 11 rain days. That makes Christchurch the drier option by 1 rain day and 8 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Christchurch vs Wellington

Packing for Christchurch in December

Highs of 20°C, lows of 11°C, 10 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for Wellington in December

Highs of 17°C, lows of 14°C, 11 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Christchurch vs Wellington

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthChristchurchWellington
HighRainHighRain
Jan22°C8d18°C8d
Feb22°C6d19°C7d
Mar20°C7d18°C8d
Apr17°C8d16°C10d
May14°C8d14°C10d
Jun11°C9d12°C12d
Jul10°C9d11°C12d
Aug11°C9d12°C13d
Sep14°C9d13°C12d
Oct16°C11d14°C12d
Nov18°C10d15°C10d
Dec20°C10d17°C11d
20°

Christchurch Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

17°

Wellington Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Christchurch warmer than Wellington in December?
Yes. In December, Christchurch is warmer with an average high of 20°C (68°F) compared to Wellington at 17°C (63°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Christchurch or Wellington?
Wellington gets more rain in December with 11 rain days and 68 mm of precipitation. Christchurch is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Christchurch or Wellington in December?
It depends on your preferences. Christchurch averages 20°C and 12 hours of daily sunshine with 10 rain days. Wellington averages 17°C with 12 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Christchurch. For drier weather, Christchurch is the better pick.
How far apart are Christchurch and Wellington?
Christchurch and Wellington are approximately 305 km (189 miles) apart. Christchurch is located in New Zealand (Oceania) while Wellington is in New Zealand (Oceania).
What is the best month to visit Christchurch and Wellington?
For Christchurch, January tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 22°C. For Wellington, January is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 18°C highs.

Compare Christchurch and Wellington in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Christchurch coordinates: -43.53°N, 172.64°E | Wellington coordinates: -41.29°N, 174.78°E