Climate in Christchurch, NZ

Posted by: Ian G. on 10 October 2005

OK, having hade two great holidays in S. Island in the last two years we're musing on trying to re-locate to Christchurch from rainy Edinburgh.

So a few questions for you Kiwis

1) How good is the climate in Christchurch really, e.g for how many months of the year could you reasonably expect to sit outside and relax in the evening after work.

2) for how many months of the year can one swim in the sea without a wetsuit ?

3) Is Abel Tasman too far away for weekend visits?

Ian

Posted on: 10 October 2005 by bazz

Jeez, you could throw a rock and hit the South Pole from there. Come to Oz, much nicer climate.

Posted on: 10 October 2005 by Deane F

I've lived there for a while - only recently left. The problem is that it is difficult to offer an opinion without resorting to a comparison.

When I lived in Taranaki in the North Island the weather followed the pattern of three days sunny; three days rain. Christchurch isn't like that - it (tends) to follow trends.

When I lived on Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf the weather was very changeable and entirely unpredictable - but more moist than not. Christchurch, when it is moist, is very moist; though it often droughts in the summer months and gets very dry.

I wouldn't say it is humid (compared to Queensland) more of a dry heat. There are extremely hot days in the summer. Extremely cold days in the winter.

Doesn't usually snow more than once a year and it never stays on the ground for more than a few days. There are historical exceptions to this, of course. But usually 20cm is the limit.

Redeye?

Posted on: 12 October 2005 by Ian G.

Thanks for the info Deane.

What did you mean by 'redeye?' ?

Ian

Posted on: 12 October 2005 by Deane F

"Redeye" the Forum member.