Weather in Invercargill

Find out what weather awaits you in the city of Invercargill right now. Below you will find up-to-date weather reports, detailed charts, and a forecast to help you plan your day better.

The climate of Invercargill can be described as temperate oceanic, with cool summers and mild winters. Thanks to its location in the south of New Zealand and its proximity to the ocean, there is no stifling heat or extreme frost here. Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year, creating a fresh and invigorating atmosphere.

Summer, which lasts from December to February, is very comfortable here: average daytime temperatures reach 18–20°C, which is excellent for outdoor activities. The winter months (June–August) bring cooler weather, when the air warms up to only 9–10°C during the day, and at night the temperature drops to 3–4°C. Transitions between seasons are smooth, without sharp temperature spikes.

An important feature of the local weather is high humidity and regular precipitation. Statistics show that rainy days occur frequently — from 14 to 19 days a month year-round. This means the sky is often cloudy, and an umbrella or a high-quality raincoat will be indispensable companions on your trip, regardless of which month you plan your visit.

The climate in Invercargill can be characterised as temperate and cool, without extreme temperature fluctuations. The warmest time of the year is summer (December — February), when the air warms up to comfortable levels. The peak of warmth occurs in January with an average temperature of about 15.8°C. During this period, daytime highs reach the 19.9°C mark, making the weather pleasant for active recreation, but not hot at all. Summer nights remain fresh, with temperatures around 11-12°C.

Winter, arriving here in June, brings coolness, but severe frosts are usually not observed. The coldest months are June and July, when the average temperature drops to 6.6°C. During the day, the air warms up only to 9.5-9.7°C, and nightly figures decrease to 3.5°C. It is worth noting that a noticeable difference between day and night temperatures persists throughout the year (on average about 7-8 degrees), so even after a sunny day, the evening may require warm clothes.

Precipitation in Invercargill is a regular occurrence and is distributed almost evenly throughout the year. It is difficult to distinguish a clearly defined dry or wet season here, so a high-quality raincoat and waterproof shoes will become your faithful companions on any trip. The local climate is characterised by a high frequency of rainy days, which often manifest as drizzle or short-term showers.

The highest frequency of rain, according to statistics, is observed in spring and early summer. The record holder is often October, when about 19 rainy days are recorded. September and December are also distinguished by high humidity — it rains on average 18 days a month. This means that the probability of precipitation exists almost constantly, and sunny weather can quickly change to overcast.

The end of summer and the beginning of autumn can be called a relatively "drier" period. In February, March, and June, the number of days with precipitation decreases to 14, which gives tourists slightly more chances for a clear sky. In the winter months (June–August), despite low temperatures, rain prevails, although frosts are possible; snow falls less frequently and usually does not lie for long.

The weather in Invercargill is known for its variability, so the golden rule for any traveller here is to dress in layers. Since even in the warmest months (January and February) the temperature rarely exceeds 20°C, and the wind from the Southern Ocean can be piercing, you will definitely need a windproof and waterproof jacket. Merino wool clothing or thermal underwear is perfect as a base layer, over which it is convenient to wear a fleece jacket or sweater. This approach will allow you to feel comfortable both during sunny walks and if clouds suddenly roll in.

If you are going on a trip in winter (from June to August), be prepared for cool days with temperatures around 6-9°C. During this period, it is worth putting a warm hat, scarf, gloves, and a reliable down jacket in your suitcase. In summer, light trousers and t-shirts will come in handy, but a warm jumper should be at hand even at the height of the season. Given that the number of rainy days remains consistently high throughout the year (about 14-19 days a month), a high-quality raincoat will become your best friend.

To explore the city and surroundings, choose comfortable, waterproof flat shoes that can withstand frequent weather changes. Do not forget to take sunscreen and sunglasses: despite the coolness, the sun in New Zealand is very strong, and you can get a burn even through the clouds. An umbrella may be useful, but due to frequent winds, many locals and tourists prefer windproof raincoats with hoods.