Invercargill Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Invercargill.
Climate overview of Invercargill
The temperature in Invercargill, Southland, New Zealand, varies moderately as the seasons change. Temperatures shift from pleasant to cold as the months progress, with heavy rainfall common year-round. The gateway location to Stewart Island makes it essential for accessing New Zealand's most remote wilderness.
Invercargill Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Invercargill — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Invercargill
The climate in Invercargill experiences moderate temperature changes, with mild shifts between seasons. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in January to a chilly 11°C (52°F) in the coolest month, July.
Nights vary from 11°C (52°F) in January to around 3°C (37°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Invercargill
Invercargill has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1277 mm (50 in) of rainfall annually. Precipitation levels in Invercargill remain relatively steady throughout the year. October has the most rain, with 127 mm (5 in) over 19 days. In the driest month July, this drops slightly to 83 mm (3.3 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our Invercargill Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Invercargill
For those who appreciate different seasons, Invercargill serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in December with an average of 6.4 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in June, offering only 2.6 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Invercargill
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 10°C (50°F) in June to 13°C (55°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Invercargill by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 88%. In November, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 78%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Invercargill
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) in June, July and August to 5 m/s (10 knots) in January, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Invercargill
Rainfall during this time ranges from 112 mm (4.4 in) in February to 127 mm (5 in) in January. This means you can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Invercargill
What is the best time to visit Invercargill?
January, February, March and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Invercargill. In contrast, May and September tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Invercargill?
Daytime highs range from 11°C (52°F) in July to 19°C (66°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 11°C (52°F).
How much rain does Invercargill get?
Annual rainfall is around 1277 mm (50 in). October is the wettest month with 127 mm (5 in), while July is the driest with 83 mm (3.3 in).
How sunny is Invercargill?
Invercargill receives around 1,695 hours of sunshine per year. December is the sunniest month with 192 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 77 hours.
Invercargill 3-Day Forecast
Invercargill 3-Day Forecast
Invercargill on the map
Invercargill is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Auckland
15°C (59°F) Paihia16°C (61°F) Wellington13°C (55°F) Rotorua13°C (55°F) Christchurch12°C (54°F) Nelson12°C (54°F) Taupo11°C (52°F) Queenstown3°C (37°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
White-water sledge and raft in Rotorua
We recommend to white-water sledge and raft in Rotorua in summer (January, February) when the Glacier melt fills the rivers. This is the best time.