Weather

New Zealand is one of the most difficult countries in the world in which to forecast the weather. Although the weather is changeable, there is certainly plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures to enjoy. It is not uncommon, especially in the South Island to experience ‘four seasons in one day’!

New Zealand is a small country surrounded by ocean. A complicating, but often beneficial factor on the day to day weather, is the steep mountain range running down the spine of New Zealand orientated in a southwest-northeast direction. These mountains often shelter eastern parts of the country from an onslaught of westerly winds and rain.

The weather over New Zealand is mostly influenced by fast moving weather systems in the strong westerly winds (often referred to as the ‘roaring forties’) that predominate over southern parts of the country and seas to the south. There tends to be a seven day cycle associated with these westerlies as a cold front sweeps over the country associated with a couple of days rain, somewhere over the country. Often though these westerlies are disrupted by large high pressure systems (that’s good!) or by storm systems (not so good!).

So what is the weather like over New Zealand during the year?

During the summer and early autumn months (from about December to April), the westerlies tend to move south and New Zealand is more likely to experience settled weather. Always be prepared for a change though! Also, during this time, random weather systems from the tropics can make their presence felt, mainly over the North Island, with a period of warm wet windy weather.

Winter weather in New Zealand (May to August) tends to be more changeable than normal. Cold fronts often bring a period of rain to western areas followed by a cold wind from the south bringing snow to the mountains and sometimes to near sea level over eastern parts of the South Island. When the weather turns cold and wet in the east though, to the west of the mountains, it will be fantastic! At this time of the year it is not uncommon for high pressure systems (and clear skies) to park over the whole country for long periods bringing crisp frosty nights and mornings followed by cool sunny days.

In spring, from August to November, the westerly winds (on average) are at their strongest over New Zealand – these are called the equinoctial westerlies. It tends to rain more in western areas at this time (especially in the South Island), while in the east, warm dry winds can give great cycling weather. Once again though, a cold front and its accompanying south winds can give you a taste of winter at any stage.

So when is the best time to cycle in New Zealand?

The best time probably fits in with daylight saving time (when time is adjusted by one hour to utilise the daylight in the evenings), from October to April. During these months the temperature is warmer and the days are longer, but keep the rain jacket and thermalwear handy for the ever changing New Zealand weather!

The best web site for up to date weather forecast for five days in advance is at Metservice or www.fencepost.com