
Wellington Weather in November
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Updated: March 2026
Is November a Good Time to Visit Wellington?
November is a good time to visit Wellington (6/10). With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 10 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 4th sunniest of the year in Wellington. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find November a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak January without sacrificing all the good weather. October offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Wellington's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
Based on 30-year climate normals (1991 to 2020), November in Wellington averages 15°C by day and 12°C overnight, a range that places it in the temperate middle ground of the year. The month records approximately 11 sunshine hours per day and 75mm of total rainfall across 10 wet days, giving it a sunshine-to-rain ratio that is broadly workable for most itineraries.
15°C
Avg High
12°C
Avg Low
10 days
Rain Days
11h
Sunshine
65%
Humidity
Temperature in Wellington in November
The narrow 3°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures, characteristic of coastal cities with maritime moderation, means a single mid-layer works across the whole day. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. UV index averages 9 this month, classed as high to very high. SPF 30+ sunscreen, a brim hat, and sunglasses are not optional between 10am and 4pm. Average wind speeds of 33 km/h add a meaningful windchill factor, making the 15°C temperature feel cooler than it reads. In Fahrenheit: 59°F average high, 54°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature in November
Monthly Precipitation (mm)
What to Wear in Wellington in November
Packing for Wellington in November means dressing for 15°C days and 12°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 15°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 12°C, a modest 3°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. A compact foldable umbrella weighs almost nothing and earns its keep across 10 potential rainy days.
Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Wellington. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.
Events in Wellington in November
November has no major festivals or public holidays in Wellington, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Wellington in November
Based on 15°C average highs and 10 rainy days
- Warm jacket (down or fleece)
- Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
- Sweaters and lined trousers
- Scarf and lightweight gloves
- Compact folding umbrella
- Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Wellington in November
- Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 15°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
- Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
- Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 15°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
- Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningNovember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months
Why is Wellington mild in November?
November marks the transition into warmer conditions in Wellington, as the sun angle climbs and day length extends. Temperatures averaging 15°C by day and 12°C overnight reflect a city shaking off winter: the morning air still carries a cool edge, but afternoons are noticeably warmer than even four weeks prior. At 41 degrees south latitude, spring is one of the most dynamic periods in the annual cycle, with weekly temperature changes that can be larger than the month-to-month shifts of summer. This volatility is part of the appeal: Wellington in November has a freshness and energy that peak-summer heat tends to mute. Layers remain essential, but there are reliable pockets of warmth that reward patience. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions: Wellington in November
November ranks 4th sunniest of the year in Wellington, with an average 11 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are February, January, and March. February is the hottest month (19°C avg high); July is the coolest (11°C). From here, temperatures rise 2°C into December. Compared to last month (October: 14°C high, 12 rain days), November is warmer and drier. November sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Wellington, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 15°C | 8 | 12h | View |
| February | 19°C | 15°C | 7 | 11h | View |
| March | 18°C | 14°C | 8 | 10h | View |
| April | 16°C | 13°C | 10 | 8h | View |
| May | 14°C | 11°C | 10 | 7h | View |
| June | 12°C | 10°C | 12 | 6h | View |
| July | 11°C | 9°C | 12 | 7h | View |
| August | 12°C | 9°C | 13 | 8h | View |
| September | 13°C | 10°C | 12 | 9h | View |
| October | 14°C | 11°C | 12 | 10h | View |
| November | 15°C | 12°C | 10 | 11h | View |
| December | 17°C | 14°C | 11 | 12h | View |
Plan Your Trip to Wellington
Nearby Destinations with Similar Weather
These cities are within 500 km and experience broadly comparable weather conditions during the same calendar month, making them practical standalone alternatives or worthwhile additions to a longer regional itinerary.
Data Sources for Wellington
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.