Christmas in Queenstown lands right in the middle of summer, so the days feel mild to warm, while nights cool off quite a bit. Average daytime temperatures usually hover around 18°C (64°F), and nights often dip to about 6°C (43°F).
Rain shows up fairly often, with roughly a dozen wet days in December. Still, the long daylight hours and reliable sunshine make it easy to get outside and enjoy yourself.
You’ll notice the weather feels fresh and can change quickly, with clear skies suddenly turning to showers and then back again. The mix of mountain air, breezes off the lake, and strong UV levels creates conditions that are comfortable but definitely call for a bit of planning.
Overview of Queenstown Weather in December
December brings mild summer temperatures, regular rainfall, and long daylight hours in Queenstown. Warm afternoons, cool evenings, and a mix of sunny and wet days shape the outdoor experience.
Typical Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime temperatures in December usually hit 15–17°C (59–63°F). On warmer days, highs sometimes reach 20°C, but it rarely feels hot.
The air stays comfortable for walking, cycling, or hanging out by the lake.
At night, temperatures drop to around 6–8°C (43–46°F). You’ll feel a chill after sunset, especially by the water or higher up.
A light jacket or sweater comes in handy for evenings.
The difference between day and night is pretty noticeable. If you pack both short sleeves and warmer layers, you’ll be ready for anything.
December feels pleasant but not tropical, so don’t skip planning for cool nights, even at Christmas.
Rainfall Patterns and Precipitation
Rain shows up a lot in December. Queenstown usually gets 12–18 rainy days throughout the month.
Monthly rainfall totals often fall between 70 and 150 mm, depending on the year.
Showers can be quick but heavy. You might wake up to blue skies, only for rain to sweep through later.
Waterproof clothing and shoes make life easier, especially if you’re hiking or joining outdoor tours.
Humidity sits around 65–70%, which is moderate but you’ll notice it. It doesn’t usually feel sticky, but damp mornings happen often.
Carrying a compact umbrella or rain jacket means you can stay active, even if the weather turns.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight Length
December brings some of the longest days of the year in Queenstown. You’ll get about 15 hours of daylight, with sunrise early and sunset lasting late into the evening.
This extra light gives you more time for activities, so there’s no need to rush.
The area gets around 220–230 hours of sunshine for the month. Even though rain is common, clear spells show up often, and skies usually brighten after showers.
On average, you’ll see about 9 hours of sunshine per day. That’s plenty for outdoor adventures, wine tours, or a cruise on the lake.
Don’t forget sun protection, though. UV levels in New Zealand run high, even when clouds drift in.
Weather Conditions Around Christmas Week
Late December in Queenstown brings mild daytime warmth, cool nights, and long daylight hours. You’ll get a mix of sunshine and occasional rain, so the weather works for both outdoor adventures and relaxed evenings by the lake.
Temperature Trends During Christmas
Around Christmas, daytime temperatures in Queenstown usually reach 16–18°C (61–64°F). Nights cool down to about 6°C (43°F), so you’ll want a light jacket once the sun goes down.
Long summer days stretch up to 16 hours of daylight, giving you loads of time to get out and explore.
Sunshine averages about 7 hours per day, so you’ll often enjoy bright skies, even if clouds roll through.
A quick breakdown:
- Daytime highs: ~18°C
- Nighttime lows: ~6°C
- Daylight hours: ~16 hrs
- Sunshine duration: ~7 hrs
This balance of moderate warmth and cool evenings makes it easy to hike, take a lake cruise, or eat outdoors.
Chances of Rain and Cloud Cover
December is one of the wetter summer months in Queenstown. You can expect about 12 days with some rain during the month, adding up to around 99 mm.
Showers tend to be scattered, not all-day affairs, so you can usually stick to your plans.
Clouds show up a lot, but they often break, letting the sun through during the day. The sky flips between partly cloudy and clear, especially in the afternoons.
It’s smart to plan for variable weather. A waterproof layer or compact umbrella will help you stay comfortable if showers pass through.
Wind and Humidity Levels
Winds around Christmas in Queenstown usually stay light to moderate. Breezes pick up in the afternoon, especially near the lake and in open valleys, but they rarely get in the way of outdoor fun.
Humidity stays low to moderate, so the air feels fresh, not sticky. You won’t get tropical-style heat and humidity here.
The dry air, plus strong UV, means you should take sun protection seriously. Even on cooler or partly cloudy days, the UV index can reach very high levels (around 10), so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are must-haves.
Climate Characteristics of Queenstown in Late December
Late December in Queenstown brings long daylight hours, mild summer temperatures, and a mix of sunshine and rain. Conditions can flip quickly, so expect both great weather and the occasional wet spell.
Seasonal Climate Overview
Queenstown sits in New Zealand’s South Island alpine region, so summer here feels cooler than up north. In late December, daytime highs usually land between 15°C and 18°C (59°F–64°F).
Nights get chilly, often dropping to around 6°C–8°C (43°F–46°F).
Rain falls pretty often, with about 12 days of measurable rain and totals between 100–150 mm for the month.
Long daylight hours—up to 15.5 hours near Christmas—mean you get an average of 7–9 hours of sunshine per day.
Humidity sits near 65–70%, so cooler mornings can feel damp. Winds usually stay light to moderate, but mountain valleys can funnel stronger gusts sometimes.
Layered clothing and rain protection are worth packing.
Comparison to Other Months
Compared to spring months like October or November, late December feels warmer and more settled. Temperatures climb a bit, and daylight lasts longer, so you get more time outside.
Rain still shows up, but showers don’t last as long and clear skies break through more often.
If you look at January or February, late December feels just a little cooler. January usually brings the warmest days, with highs closer to 20°C (68°F).
Rainfall drops a bit in mid-summer, though weather always varies.
Winter months like July are a different world. Queenstown averages highs of only 7°C (45°F) then, and snow covers the mountains.
Late December really offers one of the best times for outdoor activities—no winter chill, but not the peak crowds or hottest days either.
Historical Weather Extremes
Most late Decembers bring mild weather, but Queenstown sometimes sees unusual swings. Some years, daytime highs have soared above 28°C (82°F), making for rare hot spells.
On the flip side, nights have occasionally dropped close to 0°C (32°F), especially when clear skies let heat escape.
Heavy rain can hit, too. In rare cases, storms have dumped more than 50 mm of rain in a day, causing local flooding and muddy trails.
These events aren’t the norm, but if you’re planning hikes or outdoor adventures, it’s good to be ready.
Snowfall in late December almost never falls in town, though higher alpine areas might hold some patches. This mix of mild warmth, the odd heavy rain, and mountain unpredictability means you’ll want to stay flexible with your plans.
What to Pack for Christmas in Queenstown
December in Queenstown brings warm afternoons, cool evenings, and plenty of sun. The right mix of lightweight clothes, warmer layers, and some protective gear will keep you comfortable, no matter what the weather does.
Clothing Recommendations
Daytime temperatures often reach the low 20s °C, so you’ll want lightweight shirts, shorts, and breathable fabrics for comfort.
A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection are essential, since the sun is strong even on cloudy days.
Evenings can drop close to 8°C, so pack a warm fleece or light jacket. A pair of long pants and a sweater will keep you warm after sunset.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring town and sturdy sneakers or hiking boots for the trails.
For Christmas Day at the lake, a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and sandals are a good idea.
Here’s a simple table for reference:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| T-shirts & shorts | Warm daytime wear |
| Jacket/fleece | Cool evenings |
| Hat & sunglasses | Sun protection |
| Swimwear | Lake activities |
| Walking shoes | Town & trails |
Weather-Appropriate Gear
Rain falls on about 10–12 days in December, so a light waterproof jacket or packable rain shell is a smart addition. Skip heavy coats—they’re just too much for summer.
The UV index in Queenstown is very high, so pack high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection. Apply them often, even if it’s cloudy.
If you’re heading out for jet boating, hiking, or cycling, a daypack with a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a compact rain cover is practical.
For longer hikes, add insect repellent and lightweight layers you can adjust as temperatures change.
A reusable picnic set or BBQ supplies might come in handy, since plenty of locals celebrate Christmas right by the lake.
Outdoor Activities and Events During Christmas
Warm summer weather, long daylight, and festive events make Christmas in Queenstown a lively time to be outside. You can dive into adventure activities or seasonal celebrations, but it helps to plan around the weather and the busiest times of day.
Popular Holiday Activities
Christmas in Queenstown usually means spending time outdoors. Locals and visitors gather for barbecues, picnics, and lakefront walks instead of the usual winter holiday stuff.
Take a stroll through the Queenstown Gardens or ride a bike along the Frankton Track—both are easy to get to from the town center.
Lake Wakatipu is great for swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing by the shore.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a jet boat ride, go bungy jumping at Kawarau Bridge, or explore the Queenstown Cycle Trail out to Arrowtown and the Gibbston wine region.
Wineries often host tastings and special menus, which adds a festive flair.
Restaurants and bars stay open, with many offering holiday meals or drinks overlooking the lake. You’ll find everything from casual outdoor eats to fine dining, both popular on Christmas Day.
Best Times for Sightseeing
Daylight in Queenstown stretches past 15 hours in late December, so you’ve got plenty of time to explore. The sun rises early and sets late, so you can plan activities without feeling rushed.
Mornings usually feel cooler, around 9–12°C, which makes them perfect for hiking or cycling before things warm up.
Afternoons reach around 20–22°C, better for lake activities or wine tours.
Crowds get bigger around midday, especially near the waterfront and popular tracks. If you want things quieter, aim for early morning or later in the evening.
With all that daylight, sightseeing is possible well past 8 p.m.
Sun protection is a must. The UV levels are no joke in New Zealand, so always bring sunscreen, a hat, and water if you’re spending hours outside.
Impact of Weather on Outdoor Plans
December weather usually feels mild, but honestly, it can flip pretty fast. On average, Queenstown gets about 69 mm of rainfall over several days, so you might run into a few short showers, even if the week looks sunny.
Rain tends to clear up quickly, and most outdoor activities just keep going. Still, mountain trails and cycle routes can get slippery after it rains, so it’s smart to check the track status before you head out.
Cloud cover comes and goes—about half the time, it’s partly cloudy. That won’t usually mess up your sightseeing, but you might miss out on those mountain views if it’s socked in. Clear mornings often offer your best shot for photos.
Wind can be a real factor, especially if you’re planning lake activities. Paddleboarding and kayaking feel a lot calmer early in the morning, before the wind starts up. Tour operators sometimes shift schedules if things get unsafe, so staying a bit flexible makes life easier.
Travel Tips for Visiting Queenstown at Christmas
Christmas lands smack in the middle of summer in Queenstown, so you can expect warm days, long daylight hours, and a festive, busy vibe. The town gets packed with both local and international travelers, so figuring out your stay and transport early really pays off.
Accommodation and Booking Advice
Queenstown turns into one of New Zealand’s busiest spots in December, especially at Christmas and New Year. Hotels, lodges, and holiday parks often fill up weeks or even months ahead of time. If you want a good location at a decent rate, you’ll want to book as soon as you can.
Rates go up compared to the shoulder seasons. Staying in central Queenstown puts you close to restaurants, shops, and Lake Wakatipu, but it’ll cost you. If you’re after something quieter, look at places like Arrowtown or Frankton, where you can still get to the town center in about 20 minutes.
Holiday homes and serviced apartments work well for families or groups. These usually have kitchens, which makes meals easier during such a busy (and sometimes pricey) time. Budget travelers can check out hostels and campgrounds, though those spots disappear fast too.
When you book, see if your place includes parking, since spots in the center are pretty limited. It’s also worth double-checking cancellation policies, because weather or travel delays can throw off your plans.
Transport Considerations
Traffic in Queenstown really picks up during Christmas week. Roads from Cromwell or Kingston into town can get pretty busy, especially in the afternoons.
If you’re planning to drive, give yourself extra time. Parking in central Queenstown is limited, and you’ll usually need to pay for a spot.
Rental cars get snapped up fast around the holidays. It’s best to book early if you want a specific type of vehicle.
If you’d rather skip driving, you can use the local bus network. It connects the airport, Frankton, Arrowtown, and central Queenstown for a low fare.
Taxis and ride-share services are around, but you might have to wait longer during busy evenings. Many tour companies also pick up guests from hotels, which definitely makes things easier if you don’t want to deal with parking.
Cycling works too, since dedicated trails link the town to nearby spots. Just keep in mind, summer weather can turn quickly, so it’s smart to pack some light waterproof gear if you plan to bike.