Yearly & Monthly weather - Mount Cook, New Zealand

The climate of Mount Cook

Mount Cook, New Zealand, situated in the marine west coast climate zone, is characterized by a Cfc Köppen climate classification, indicating a cool summer. Throughout the four-season cycle, the Cfc climate implies a constant air moisture influx. It is a place where the influence of the sea is significant in shaping the weather conditions.

Moving through the year, the average monthly temperature ranges between a low of -2.2°C (28°F) to a high of 20.7°C (69.3°F). Notably, humidity remains relatively high throughout the year, fluctuating between 71.5% to 83.2%. The rainfall displays variations, with minimum levels down to 278mm (10.94") and peaking up to 487mm (19.17"). An analysis of daylight hours reveals that they range from 9 hours to 15.4 hours, whereas sunshine hours range from 2.2 hours to 6 hours.

Essential to note are the peculiarities observed in specific months. For instance, the highest precipitation incidences occur in summer and winter, while the driest moments are usually in early autumn.

The best time to visit Mount Cook

Best time for sightseeing in Mount Cook would arguably be during the months with moderate temperatures, sufficient daylight, and limited rainfall. These criteria are satisfied from January to March, characterized by high temperatures between 14.5°C (58.1°F) to 20.7°C (69.3°F) and extended daylight hours from 13.8 hours to 15 hours. The rainfall during these months, although not insignificant, fluctuates from 278mm (10.94") to 458mm (18.03"), which is less than in other periods. The duration of sunshine makes these months ideal for both adventurers and those seeking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Mount Cook.

The worst time to visit Mount Cook

Contrary to the above, the months from June to August serve as the least favored times to visit this locality. During this phase, temperatures reach their lowest, between -2.2°C (28°F) to 8.6°C (47.5°F), and the daylight hours dip to the year's lowest range, from 9 hours to 10.4 hours. Coupled with rainfall, recorded between 305mm (12.01") to 315mm (12.4"), these conditions might not be favorable for outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Mount Cook

Spring in Mount Cook, spanning September to November, commences with an upturn in temperature, from a low of 1.5°C (34.7°F) to a high of 16.5°C (61.7°F). As temperatures increase, the days elongate from 11.8 hours to 14.6 hours. Simultaneously, an increased chance of rainfall occurs, from 297mm (11.69") to 414mm (16.3"), coupled with relative humidity fluctuating between 72.4% to 73.8%.

Summer weather in Mount Cook

The summer months, December to February, are characterized by the highest temperatures, fluctuating between 8.8°C (47.8°F) to 20.7°C (69.3°F). This period also hosts the longest daylight hours, from 13.8 hours to 15.4 hours, allowing maximum sunlight exposure. However, heavy rainfall can be expected, ranging from 414mm (16.3") to 487mm (19.17"), alongside relative humidity between 73.8% to 78.6%.

Autumn weather in Mount Cook

Autumn in Mount Cook unfolds from March to May, characterized by a downswing in temperature from 6.8°C (44.2°F) to 14.5°C (58.1°F). The daylight hours also taper off, ranging between 10.9 to 12.4 hours. The rainfall amount experiences a slight decrease during this season, with levels dropping from 363mm (14.29") to 357mm (14.06"), and relative humidity hovers between 79.3% to 81.7%.

Winter weather in Mount Cook

Winter, which spans June to August, brings the chilliest weather in Mount Cook with temperatures falling between -2.2°C (28°F) to 8.6°C (47.5°F). The short daylight hours, ranging from 9 hours to 10.4 hours, limit the amount of sunlight received during this period. Despite being the coldest season, the rainfall levels remain moderately high between 305mm (12.01") to 315mm (12.4"), and the relative humidity oscillates around 80.4% to 83.2%.

Weather in January

In the heart of summer, January sees conditions in Mount Cook, New Zealand, that are relatively warm. Following December, temperatures remain stable, allowing residents and tourists alike to enjoy the outdoors. Sunshine is abundant, even though there is a substantial amount of rain. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Transitioning from January, February in Mount Cook tends to have warm temperatures with a high level of humidity. The amount of rainfall decreases, contributing to a noticeable dryness in the atmosphere. This month also boasts more sunshine hours compared to the previous month, adding a blaze to the serene scene. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As March rolls in, the weather in Mount Cook starts to cool down. The sunny hours reduce, and the dryness witnessed in February starts to fade as the rain starts to fall more frequently. The humidity remains high, creating an environment that is slightly damper. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April signifies the onset of autumn in Mount Cook, and the landscape starts to transform. The reduced temperature further sets the tone for an ambiance that is cool and often damp, a far cry from the warm, humid climate experienced in the preceding months. Weather in April »

Weather in May

As winter nears, the month of May brings significant change in Mount Cook weather. The days get colder, shorter, and are met with a noticeably increased amount of rainfall. As the temperatures dip and daylight reduces, the humidity level increases. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June officially marks the start of winter in Mount Cook. The temperatures continue to drop, and the daylight hours decrease even further. A thick layer of fog often envelopes the city, creating an eerie yet fascinating sight. Now, Mount Cook experiences the year's lowest average temperatures of -1°C (30.2°F). Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is in the heart of the winter season in Mount Cook, with the weather marked by snow and freezing temperatures. Daylight hours are scarce, making July the darkest month of the year. However, the snow-covered city under the moonlight makes for an ethereal view. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As August begins, Mount Cook pulls out of its coldest period, but the city is still in the grips of winter. The chilly winds remain, although the daylight hours start to increase, indicating the impending transition into spring. Weather in August »

Weather in September

In September, Mount Cook slowly welcomes the spring weather. Temperatures continue to rise, and longer daylight hours translate into pleasant evenings. Rain showers come and go, keeping the atmosphere damp. A key detail for this month; September sees the average humidity level drop to a year's all-time low of 72.4%. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Mount Cook is a delightful blend of fair temperature and slightly moody weather. The city experiences longer hours of sunshine and increased rainfall. The trees color themselves into a palette of warm hues, painting a picturesque autumnal landscape. Weather in October »

Weather in November

As the year draws towards the end, November brings warmer weather to Mount Cook. With the sunshine persisting and temperatures on the rise, the rainfall remains fairly consistent. The landscapes transition from the warm hues of fall to the vibrant shades of summer greens. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the start of summer in Mount Cook. It presents longer daylight hours, moderate temperatures, and frequent rainfall. Although summer is here, mornings and nights retain a cooler touch. This month sees a significant increase in average high temperatures, reaching 18.2°C (64.8°F). Weather in December »

Updated: Jul 9, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

How much does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 163.4 rainfall days, and 4485mm (176.57") of precipitation is accumulated.

What is the month with the most sunshine?

January and February, with an average of 6h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.

What are the warmest months?

February, with an average high of 20.7°C (69.3°F) and a low of 8.8°C (47.8°F), signifies the warmest month of the year.

What is the driest month?

February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 10.9 days and accumulates 278mm (10.94") of precipitation.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, 07. April 2024, at 3:00 am, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from NZDT to NZST. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 29. September 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from NZST to NZDT.

What is the most humid month?

The most humid month is June, with an average relative humidity of 83.2%.

What is the month with the shortest days?

The month with the shortest days is June, with an average of 9h and 0min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

The month with the least sunshine is June, with an average of 2.2h of sunshine.

What month is the coldest?

July tends to be the coldest month, with temperatures averaging a daily high of 6.5°C (43.7°F) and a low of -2.2°C (28°F).

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month in Mount Cook is September, with an average relative humidity of 72.4%.

What is the rainiest month?

December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15.7 days and accumulates 487mm (19.17") of precipitation.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 15h and 24min of daylight.

Today

Tomorrow

Long-term

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D

Average temperature
Mount Cook, New Zealand

Average high temperature in January:
20.5°C
Average high temperature in February:
20.7°C
Average high temperature in March:
17.9°C
Average high temperature in April:
14.5°C
Average high temperature in May:
11°C
Average high temperature in June:
7.6°C

Average high temperature in July:
6.5°C
Average high temperature in August:
8.6°C
Average high temperature in September:
11.9°C
Average high temperature in October:
14.2°C
Average high temperature in November:
16.5°C
Average high temperature in December:
18.2°C

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (20.7°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (6.5°C).

Average low temperature in January:
9°C
Average low temperature in February:
8.8°C
Average low temperature in March:
6.8°C
Average low temperature in April:
4°C
Average low temperature in May:
1.5°C
Average low temperature in June:
-1°C

Average low temperature in July:
-2.2°C
Average low temperature in August:
-0.8°C
Average low temperature in September:
1.5°C
Average low temperature in October:
3.6°C
Average low temperature in November:
5.4°C
Average low temperature in December:
7.3°C

The month with the highest average low temperature is January (9°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (-2.2°C).

Average humidity
Mount Cook, New Zealand

The month with the highest relative humidity is June (83.2%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is September (72.4%).

Average rainfall
Mount Cook, New Zealand

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (487.2mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (278.4mm).

Average rainfall days
Mount Cook, New Zealand

Average rainfall days in January:
12.4 days
Average rainfall days in February:
10.9 days
Average rainfall days in March:
13.4 days
Average rainfall days in April:
12.4 days
Average rainfall days in May:
13.1 days
Average rainfall days in June:
13.8 days

Average rainfall days in July:
13.5 days
Average rainfall days in August:
13.9 days
Average rainfall days in September:
13.7 days
Average rainfall days in October:
16.7 days
Average rainfall days in November:
13.9 days
Average rainfall days in December:
15.7 days

The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (16.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (10.9 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Mount Cook, New Zealand

Average daylight in January:
15h and 0min
Average daylight in February:
13h and 5min
Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min
Average daylight in April:
10h and 5min
Average daylight in May:
9h and 4min
Average daylight in June:
9h and 0min

Average daylight in July:
9h and 2min
Average daylight in August:
10h and 2min
Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min
Average daylight in October:
13h and 2min
Average daylight in November:
14h and 4min
Average daylight in December:
15h and 2min

The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 15h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 9h and 0min).

Average sunshine in January:
6h and 0min
Average sunshine in February:
6h and 0min
Average sunshine in March:
4h and 5min
Average sunshine in April:
4h and 1min
Average sunshine in May:
3h and 0min
Average sunshine in June:
2h and 1min

Average sunshine in July:
2h and 2min
Average sunshine in August:
3h and 4min
Average sunshine in September:
4h and 2min
Average sunshine in October:
4h and 5min
Average sunshine in November:
5h and 2min
Average sunshine in December:
5h and 2min

The months with the most sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 6h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 2h and 12min).

Climate and monthly weather forecastMount Cook, New Zealand

Contents