🇦🇺 Cairns vs Wellington 🇳🇿

Cairns, Australia vs Wellington, New Zealand — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Cairns is the warmer of the two — about 12 degrees warmer on average across the year. Wellington is drier, with roughly 43 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇦🇺 Cairns🇳🇿 Wellington
Avg annual high28°C16°C
Hottest monthFebruary (30°C)January (20°C)
Coldest monthJuly (18°C low)July (9°C low)
Rainy days / year243200
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitJune, July, AugustJanuary, February, March

🇦🇺 Cairns

Best around June, July, August. Hottest in February (30°C), coldest lows in July (18°C).

🇳🇿 Wellington

Best around January, February, March. Hottest in January (20°C), coldest lows in July (9°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Cairns or Wellington warmer?

Cairns is warmer overall, averaging about 12 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Cairns or Wellington?

Cairns is rainier — Wellington sees about 43 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Cairns vs Wellington?

Cairns is best around June, July, August; Wellington is best around January, February, March.

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