RSS
New Zealand lies between 37 and 47 degrees south of the Tropic of Capricorn. The two main regions
of the country, North and South Islands enjoy moderate, maritime climate and weather with not so high humidity. Generally, the climate of New Zealand ranges from semi-arid in Central Otago, with around annual rainfall of 300 mm to considerably wet with up to 8000 mm in places of west of the Southern Alps. Most New Zealand cities receive precipitation between 650 mm as in Christchurch and 1500 mm in Whangarei annually. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year. The weather and climate are of great importance in the lives of New Zealanders as many people make their living from the land.
New Zealand's climate is particularly shaped by two main geographical features: the mountains and
the sea. With fewer extremes as are found in most continental climates, New Zealand does not have a large temperature range. However, the weather can change unexpectedly as there are chances of cold or tropical winds being quickly blown in. Because of this, you should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperature if you're going for hiking or doing other outdoor activities. The months of December, January and February form the chunk of summer season while winter season spans through June, July and August. September, October and November are of spring season while autumn dominates the months of March, April and May.
As New Zealand lies in the Southern Hemisphere, the average temperature decreases as you travel
South. The North of New Zealand is subtropical and the South temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20 – 300C and in winter between 10 – 150C. New Zealand on occasions becomes a victim of a tropical cyclone once in every eight to nine years. Cyclone Bola was one of the costliest cyclones in the history of New Zealand, causing severe damage in 1988.
GOWEALTHY.COM © 2011
For comments: editor@gowealthy.com
