Christchurch in December
In December, Christchurch averages 20°C (68°F) during the day and 12°C (53°F) at night, with frequent rain — about 15 days of the month see precipitation (62 mm total).
Peak seasonConditions are comfortable for sightseeing without being sweltering. Plan for unsettled weather and bring rain gear.
December offers comfortable temperatures in Christchurch, with some rain to plan around.
How December compares to the rest of the year in Christchurch
December is one of the warmest months in Christchurch (3rd of 12) and moderately rainy compared to the rest of the year (9th of 12). Daytime temperature runs 4°C above the annual average (16°C). December runs 2°C warmer than November (18°C) and warms a further 1°C into January (21°C).
December sunrise & sunset in Christchurch
Times shown for Christchurch local time (Pacific/Auckland), calculated for the 15th of December. They shift by a few minutes day to day across the month.
Photography light in Christchurch — December
Golden-hour and blue-hour windows for the 15th of December, in Christchurch's local time. Use these for soft warm light (golden) or cool architectural twilight (blue).
📅 When to book — Christchurch in December
Travel writers usually only tell you when to go. Here's when to book flights and lodging for the best mix of price and availability, based on December's tier (Peak season) and Christchurch's popularity.
Crowds & pricing — December in Christchurch
Christchurch is in peak season during this month — expect bigger crowds at famous sights, higher hotel and flight prices, and longer queues. Restaurant reservations a few days out are advisable, and any boutique hotels you have your eye on should be booked weeks ahead. The trade-off: most attractions, restaurants, and seasonal services are fully open, the weather is at its most reliable, and the city feels at its most alive.
Why this tier: excellent tourism weather
Sun & mosquito risk — December in Christchurch
UV is a clear-sky sea-level estimate — clouds, altitude, and reflective surfaces (snow, water) shift it ±30%. Mosquito risk is climate-derived only; for current disease advisories (dengue, malaria, zika) check the CDC or WHO travel pages before your trip.
Christchurch in other months
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rainfall | Rain days | Snow days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21°C / 71°F | 13°C / 56°F | 52 mm | 16 | — |
| February | 21°C / 71°F | 13°C / 56°F | 51 mm | 11 | — |
| March | 19°C / 67°F | 12°C / 53°F | 56 mm | 14 | — |
| April | 17°C / 62°F | 9°C / 48°F | 63 mm | 15 | — |
| May | 14°C / 58°F | 7°C / 44°F | 54 mm | 15 | — |
| June | 12°C / 53°F | 5°C / 40°F | 57 mm | 16 | — |
| July | 11°C / 51°F | 3°C / 38°F | 72 mm | 16 | — |
| August | 12°C / 53°F | 4°C / 39°F | 39 mm | 14 | — |
| September | 14°C / 57°F | 6°C / 42°F | 44 mm | 15 | — |
| October | 16°C / 61°F | 8°C / 46°F | 49 mm | 17 | — |
| November | 18°C / 64°F | 10°C / 49°F | 64 mm | 18 | — |
| December | 20°C / 68°F | 12°C / 53°F | 62 mm | 15 | — |
Other cities with similar December weather
🌍 See the full ranked list of climate twins for Christchurch in December →
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Christchurch in December?
In December, Christchurch averages a high of 20°C (68°F) and a low of 12°C (53°F) — generally mild and pleasant.
Does it rain a lot in Christchurch in December?
December is quite rainy in Christchurch, with about 15 rainy days on average.
Is December a good time to visit Christchurch?
December is mild and pleasant but on the rainy side. It suits travelers who are comfortable with mild and pleasant weather; check the month-by-month ranking to compare it against the rest of the year.
What should I pack for Christchurch in December?
Pack light layers for warm days and cooler evenings, plus a compact umbrella or rain jacket. See the full December packing list for Christchurch for a complete, climate-based checklist.
Check the live 10-day forecast and sunrise/sunset.