November Weather
November is the last off-shoulder month of the calendar year in terms of 'tourist seasons' in New Zealand and is (arguably) one of the best months in which to visit. For fans of hiking and outdoor adventure, November weather is almost perfect and although packing layers (from light t-shirts to fleeces) is advisable, extreme weather conditions are rare. It can feel like spring, it can feel like summer – it would be rare for November's typical weather to spoil your trip.
Where To Go
Photographer: David Wall
(www.davidWallPhoto.com)
Let's imagine that you only have a month or six weeks to travel through New Zealand (and we of course would recommend more – three or four months would be perfect), where do you go to make sure you see the best attractions and sights?
Well, it's open to debate, but if you manage to visit most of the places (and surrounding areas) below as you travel, you'll have a wonderful time:
Popular travel and tourist destinations start to get busier in November (New Zealand never exactly feels crowded).
The weather is fine (though as variable as usual), which attracts many visitors preferring warmer climes. However, the school and Christmas holidays are yet to start, so it's a good month of the year in which to visit. Plan ahead if you can and make your bookings early to avoid disappointment.
November's Top Event
The Canterbury A&P Show – If you want to know exactly what an A&P show is all about, then visit the largest in the country – the Canterbury A&P Show, which has been running since 1862. Billed as the time when 'country comes to town' this three day event includes sheep-shearing, wood-cutting, horse and pony trials, stalls, live entertainment, food demonstrations, fairground rides, petting corner, best of breed competitions and much more.
Weather By Month
Our overview of New Zealand's typical weather by month can help you plan your holiday, unmissable highlights for the month (e.g. events and festivals), sightseeing and activities and even your packing. But do be warned – these are not weather forecasts, so expect some of the unexpected during your stay!
| Spring Weather | Summer Weather | Autumn Weather | Winter Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | December | March | June |
| October | January | April | July |
| November | February | May | August |
Weather in the Major Centres
Find out: where to expect 'four seasons in one day', where to find New Zealand's semi-tropical regions, which city is the sunniest, where to experience the most rainfall and discover which city is the country's windiest.
| North Island Weather and Climate | South Island Weather and Climate |
|---|---|
| Auckland | Christchurch |
| Bay of Islands | Queenstown |
| Rotorua | |
| Wellington |
