What to Wear In New Zealand? Bonus: Packing List!

You finally got a few days or weeks off work (or college) and you’re looking at interesting destinations to visit?

If you’re fond of beautiful green landscapes, and picturesque nature and you’re outdoorsy, New Zealand is the perfect choice for you!

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the southwestern part of Polynesia, New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere.

That means that the four seasons of the year are expressed differently than in the Northern Hemisphere.

It is important to know this because it helps you to prepare for the trip.

Packing for a holiday isn’t always an easy task, especially if you’re going to a destination such as New Zealand.

Continue reading and we’ll present you with a few useful ideas that will make your choice much easier and your trip more enjoyable!

What To Wear in New Zealand in January

The summer season in New Zealand lasts from December to February, so January represents the peak of the summer there.

It is the driest month of the year throughout the country so it’s great for plenty of outdoor activities.

January is also the hottest, reaching its highest temperature of 25°C in Northland, Auckland, and upper North Island, sometimes even getting as high as 30°C.

It is advisable to pack some lightweight clothes, which keep your body cool, such as cotton T-shirts, linen shirts or blouses, and tank tops.

Women should pack both long and short flowy skirts and dresses, while men can wear denim shorts and summer sneakers.

In Queenstown, in the south of the South Island and places surrounded by mountains, the average temperature in January is about 22°C, so it’s much more pleasant.

Wear linen pants and shirts, cotton leggings or sweatpants, and comfortable T-shirts, and enjoy your New Zealand trip!

What to Wear in New Zealand in February

February is generally hot in New Zealand as it marks the end of the summer season.

On the North and South Islands, the temperature rises to about 25°C or higher.

Wear some of your cool outfits for the summer weather, as you’ll be enjoying lots of bright and sunny days if you decide to travel in February.

Things such as a nice sundress paired with sneakers or sandals make a great combo, as well as shorts and crop tops if you want to be more comfy but still stylish!

As for men, it is also advisable to pack a few pairs of both cotton and denim shorts, depending if you’re going on a casual walk or a hike or a nice dinner and a stroll around the town.

The temperature drops to 10°C during the cooler days, especially in the mountain area.

Wear something warmer, like jeans or thicker cotton sweatpants and trousers.

Pack some sweaters and a winter coat or a jacket, to make sure you’re warm and cozy.

What to Wear in New Zealand in March

Even though summer is generally the most popular time to visit New Zealand amongst tourists, March is a better option for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy quality time on their holiday.

Despite officially being the first month of autumn, the summer weather typically remains the same as in February – at least in some parts of the country.

The temperature is warm and pleasant in northern and coastal areas with an average high of 22°C and about 17°C in the central part of New Zealand.

Pack something lightweight but buildable, because you might need to layer up.

Long and short-sleeved T-shirts are a good option, as you won’t be too hot but you can always put something over it, such as a nice knitted cardigan or a vest.

Wear jeans or leggings, depending on the activities you have planned for your trip.

The further you go in the South, the cooler it is, with an average of 15°C in Queenstown and Dunedin.

You might even see a glimpse of snow on the mountains so be prepared by packing a light puffer jacket and bring some autumn/winter boots as well.

What to Wear in New Zealand in April

When someone from the Northern Hemisphere thinks of autumn, the thing that pops to mind is yellow and orange leaves crunching under our feet.

Not to mention the crisp and chilly air and the usual rainy days that stretches out throughout the entire season. Well, not in New Zealand – in the northern parts at least.

It is shoulder season in the country, so there’s still a chance to see some tourists wandering around, but not as many as in the previous months.

It is still pretty warm, with temperatures rising to 20°C or even higher in cities such as Auckland and, if it’s sunny, you can still swim in the sea, especially earlier in the month, because the water is still warm and pleasant.

In that case, pack some of your coolest bathing suits and hit the beach as soon as you get to your destination!

Also, make sure to bring something lightweight, such as cotton T-shirts and blouses, and some nice linen trousers and jeans for when the temperature slightly drops during the evening hours.

In general, New Zealand is quite wet throughout the year, so do not include the chance of experiencing rainfall, even though April is not as rainy as the winter months.

Be prepared by packing a raincoat and some waterproof rubber boots.

If you’re traveling further to the south, bring something warmer to wear because the average temperature during the day is about 15°C and it drops by nightfall.

It’s a good idea to pack a sweater or two along with some sweatshirts and jeans. Make sure to have a jacket or a coat with you to keep you warm during the evening hours.

What to Wear in New Zealand in May

May is known as the last month of autumn in New Zealand, so the weather can range from nice and warm to quite windy and cool, depending on where you plan to go on your trip.

As it is still shoulder season in the country, some of the most popular destinations still have quite many visitors, but not so many decide to do the outdoor activities which are fairly popular in this country.

Moderate temperatures during the day are expected in New Zealand in May, though the nights are colder, and rainfall is significantly higher than earlier in the year.

The average temperature is around 16°C and the highest goes to about 19°C.

If you’re planning your trip for this month, go through your closet and find some outfits you’d normally wear for autumn or spring weather.

That includes jeans or trousers (depending on your activities during the holiday) and some warm long-sleeved T-shirts.

It’s always a good idea to bring some additional clothes for layering.

When it gets chilly, especially at night, with temperatures of about 12°C, a nice knitted vest or a pullover is a great choice!

If you’re more on the sporty side, pack a lot of hoodies and sweatshirts accompanied with sweatshirts and leggings that you can wear or carry with you on your outdoor ventures.

And don’t forget a parka or a puffer jacket!

What to Wear in New Zealand in June

Winter in New Zealand officially starts in June! It isn’t as freezing as it is in the Swiss Alps or Canada, for example, but it can still get pretty cold, especially in the south.

June also marks the start of the ski season, so if you’re into winter sports and activities, bring your fanciest ski suit and goggles to stand out in the crowd!

Queenstown in particular has a daily maximum of 10° C, though it gets even colder sometimes due to the winds from the nearby mountains!

If you’re not a great skier yourself, but enjoy the cold weather, be prepared for the winter season by packing a warm winter jacket and wearing something such as a sweatshirt or a jumper underneath.

Jeans and thicker trousers are a must in the winter, and it is also advisable to wear tights so that you’re nice and warm.

Boots are also an essential part of your winter gear, so make sure to pack a pair or two!

Northland, or the ‘winterless north’, remains warm, so it’s no surprise that the temperature during the day reaches up to 15° C.

If you’re going to that particular area, you don’t need to pack a bunch of winter clothing, but still, make sure to pack something that will keep you warm.

A parka or a light coat would make a perfect choice to put on over a knitted jumper or a cotton turtleneck, for example!

What to Wear in New Zealand in July

This is the peak of the winter season, so if you’re a fan of cold weather and white snowy landscape, travel to the south of New Zealand to enjoy the amazing view and experience a winter in the middle of July.

The temperature remains at about 10°C as in June, so raid your wardrobe in search of some winter attire.

Colorful winter sweaters, cardigans, jeans, and a warm jacket are essential if you’re spending a lot of time outside.

Because it gets quite windy in the mountain regions as well, bring a cap, a scarf and a pair of gloves to be prepared for your outdoor activities.

If you’re traveling to the coastal cities of Wellington and Christchurch, the temperature average is about 12°C, so there’s no need to bundle up that much, but be prepared for the frosty nights by wearing a winter coat and Uggs.

In Auckland, it gets as high as 15°C at this time of year, so you can wear something more lightweight for winter, such as a puffer jacket with a long-sleeved T-shirt underneath, some jeans or sweatpants and sneakers, or fashionable ankle boots.

Don’t forget to pack a raincoat, as it does get quite rainy as well!

What to Wear in New Zealand in August

August is, according to many, one of the best months of the year to visit New Zealand.

It marks the end of the winter season in the country, there are fewer tourists than before and the prices are generally lower, so it is a perfect choice for those who don’t like large crowds and enjoy the cool, winter atmosphere.

August is slightly drier than July, but there’s still a considerable amount of rain in the Auckland area.

The temperature is similar to the one in the previous month, with an average of pleasant 15°C in the north, because of its subtropical climate.

Pack something you can wear for the pleasantly mild weather.

Layering pieces are the ones to consider bringing, as you can easily throw them on to keep you warm if needed.

Fun stylish t-shirts are perfect for wearing under sweaters and light leather or bomber jackets.

A good quality denim shirt is also a good option if you want to make your outfit look chic and preppy.

The South Island is significantly drier, as the rain turns to snow in the mountain areas mostly.

The temperature is also lower, with an average of around 10°C or lower.

That’s why you need to wear some materials that will hold more body heat than cotton, for example.

Wool, cashmere, fleece, and fur come in handy in these conditions.

If you’re not a fan of wearing real fur, faux fur coats of good quality might be just as warm and trendy!

What to Wear in New Zealand in September

September to November is the spring season, so say goodbye to the winter landscapes and cold weather (at least in the North), and say hello to the typical spring scenery– the days are longer, the sky is brighter and the snow starts to melt.

Expect temperatures from 7°C to 17°C, so pack your suitcase for “all four seasons in one day”.

For both men and women, it’s best if you bring a bit of everything when it comes to clothes.

We’re talking T-shirts (both short and long-sleeved), shirts and blouses, hoodies or light jackets, jeans, and some active wear, such as leggings, sweatpants, or a tracksuit.

Also, make sure to bring at least one pair of boots, because there’s a high chance of rainfall, typical for the spring season.

What to Wear in New Zealand in October

Spring in New Zealand reaches its peak in October. The colorful landscapes, the brightness, the lively atmosphere, and soothing and balanced weather conditions make New Zealand likely the best time to visit during this period.

With average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 21°C, you can enjoy cool and popular outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, trekking, and white water rafting.

As for packing for your spring break to New Zealand, bring as many lightweight clothes as you can.

That means light wool, cotton, and other thin fabrics are essential!

You should also bring a loose blazer, and a leather or suede jacket, in case it gets a bit chilly early in the morning or during the evening hours.

What to Wear in New Zealand in November

November represents the shoulder season of spring in New Zealand so, if you’re visiting the island during this month, enjoy the beautiful spring days with not too many tourists to deal with.

The temperature in November is around 16°C on average, so it is quite mild and pleasant for spending time outside.

It is usually dry and warm so it’s perfect for activities such as hiking, water sports, or something more extreme, such as bungee jumping.

If you’re into these types of adventures, pack something you’ll be comfortable in, such as plenty of cotton T-shirts, leggings, and sneakers.

Also, bring a sweatshirt or a puffer vest in case the temperature slightly drops or it gets a bit windy!

Rainfall is not that common during November, but the weather gets changeable in spring, so pack a rain jacket and a pair of boots with rubber soles.

Even though it is late spring, during the evening hours and early mornings it still gets quite chilly, so don’t forget to bring a fleece jacket or a parka.

What to Wear in New Zealand in December

That’s it! The summer has officially started in December, so that means you get to spend your Christmas holidays (and maybe even New Year’s Eve) on a summer vacation!

This is one of the warmest months in New Zealand, with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.

It’s a real delight for those who enjoy the summer weather but can’t stand the scorching weather and extremely high temperatures.

It is hot, but moderately, and you can always cool down on NZ’s beautiful beaches!

Pack as many bathing suits as you own, as well as your snorkeling or diving equipment.

Sundresses and short skirts for women are a must, and men should pack swimming shorts, lightweight linen shirts, and sandals.

Do not forget to bring sunscreen and good quality sunglasses, as New Zealand has the highest UV rating.

There’s hardly ever any snowfall in December, but if you’re a snow lover, you might even get to see some if you trek in the mountain region of the South Island.

In that case, bring a jacket with you and dress warmly, because it can get windy.

Like & Share This Article