🇳🇿 Christchurch vs Melbourne 🇦🇺

Christchurch, New Zealand vs Melbourne, Australia — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Melbourne is the warmer of the two — about 4 degrees warmer on average across the year. Melbourne is drier, with roughly 39 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇳🇿 Christchurch🇦🇺 Melbourne
Avg annual high16°C20°C
Hottest monthJanuary (21°C)January (26°C)
Coldest monthJuly (3°C low)July (6°C low)
Rainy days / year182143
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitJanuary, February, DecemberFebruary, March, November

🇳🇿 Christchurch

Best around January, February, December. Hottest in January (21°C), coldest lows in July (3°C).

🇦🇺 Melbourne

Best around February, March, November. Hottest in January (26°C), coldest lows in July (6°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Christchurch or Melbourne warmer?

Melbourne is warmer overall, averaging about 4 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Christchurch or Melbourne?

Christchurch is rainier — Melbourne sees about 39 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Christchurch vs Melbourne?

Christchurch is best around January, February, December; Melbourne is best around February, March, November.

Not sure? Find your ideal destination by climate →