Wellington in December
Great time to visit
Glorious summer weather returns with warm, dry conditions perfect for all outdoor activities. Crowds build up for the holidays, and prices start their climb toward peak season.
Weather
Summer returns with warm days reaching 19°C and mild nights at 12°C. December brings mostly dry conditions with occasional light showers. The wind calms down compared to other months.
19°C high12°C low9 rain days
Crowds & Cost
high crowds
~$135/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas at the Botanic Garden
- •New Year's Eve celebrations
- •Summer holidays begin
December Tips
- •Book accommodation early - summer season pricing starts
- •Perfect weather for the cable car and harbor walks
- •New Year's Eve gets packed - book restaurant tables well ahead
All Months
December through April gives you Wellington's best weather, though 'best' is relative when you're dealing with the windiest capital city on Earth. Summer temperatures hover around 20-25°C, perfect for harbor walks and outdoor dining.
January and February bring festival season. The Wellington International Arts Festival happens in late February, filling the city with theater, music, and performance art. Book accommodation early – these events pack the city.
Winter (June-August) means temperatures around 10-15°C and more rain, but also fewer crowds and better restaurant availability. The wind never stops, but indoor venues like Te Papa museum and the many cafes provide warm refuges.
Avoid Wellington during southerly storms, which can hit any time of year. When the weather app shows 80+ km/h winds, stay indoors and enjoy the dramatic harbor views from behind glass.
Wellington Scores
Solo
9/10
Couples
7/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
6/10
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