Good time to go
New Zealand in December: Weather, Crowds & What's On
What December is actually like in New Zealand — average highs and lows, how much rain to expect, public holidays that fill trains and hotels, and verified places to go.
- Average high
- 23°C
- Average low
- 13°C
- Rainfall
- 93mm
Where this month sits in the year
The 3rd warmest month of New Zealand's year. The 9th wettest month, at 7% of the year's rain.
Public holidays in December
Domestic travel peaks around these dates — book earlier and expect busier sights.
- December 25, 2026 Christmas Day
- December 26, 2026 Boxing Day
- December 28, 2026 Boxing Day (observed)
Planning a trip this month?
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Climate figures are 10-year averages for Matamata, from NASA POWER; holidays from public calendars. Updated monthly.