Expand
Contents
- The climate of Dunedin
- The best time to visit Dunedin
- The worst time to visit Dunedin
- Spring weather in Dunedin
- Summer weather in Dunedin
- Autumn weather in Dunedin
- Winter weather in Dunedin
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Dunedin
The climate of Dunedin falls into the Cfb category according to the Köppen climate classification, indicating a warm summer with frequent marine influences from the west coast. Nestled on New Zealand's southeast coast, this city experiences relatively mild temperatures, diverse humidity levels, and significant rainfall throughout the year.
The highest average temperature ranges from 13.5°C (56.3°F) to 15.8°C (60.4°F), maintaining a refreshing and cooler climate due to the coastal influences. The lowest temperature of 6.3°C (43.3°F) usually occurs during winter, contrasting with the warmer summer months where the mercury climbs to an average high of 15.8°C (60.4°F). The sea temperature follows a parallel trend, slipping to a chilly 9.2°C (48.6°F) in the colder months and reaching 13.8°C (56.8°F) during the warm season.
Humidity in Dunedin shows a uniform trend, with values oscillating from 76% to 80%. Rainfall is another constant feature of the city’s climate throughout all the twelve months, peaking at 43mm (1.69") in February and dropping to 16mm (0.63") in September. The least snowy month is September, while minor snowfall action is seen in July and August.
The highest average temperature ranges from 13.5°C (56.3°F) to 15.8°C (60.4°F), maintaining a refreshing and cooler climate due to the coastal influences. The lowest temperature of 6.3°C (43.3°F) usually occurs during winter, contrasting with the warmer summer months where the mercury climbs to an average high of 15.8°C (60.4°F). The sea temperature follows a parallel trend, slipping to a chilly 9.2°C (48.6°F) in the colder months and reaching 13.8°C (56.8°F) during the warm season.
Humidity in Dunedin shows a uniform trend, with values oscillating from 76% to 80%. Rainfall is another constant feature of the city’s climate throughout all the twelve months, peaking at 43mm (1.69") in February and dropping to 16mm (0.63") in September. The least snowy month is September, while minor snowfall action is seen in July and August.
The best time to visit Dunedin
Taking into consideration temperature, rainfall, and sunshine hours, the best time to visit Dunedin would be during the summer months, from December to February. During this period the city experiences some of the highest temperatures, between 14.7°C (58.5°F) to 15.8°C (60.4°F), and up to 10.6 hours of sunshine. Even though February has the highest average rainfall, it is counterbalanced by longer daylight hours, making it advantageous for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Dunedin
The cold and sometimes damp conditions during the winter months of June, July and August might pose discomfort to visitors. With average low temperatures hovering between 6.3°C (43.3°F) and 7.1°C (44.8°F), coupled with diminished sunshine hours (between 4.5h and 5.8h), outdoor activities might be limited. Moreover, this is the period where minimal but still present snowfall might occur.
Spring weather in Dunedin
Spring in Dunedin is marked by a moderate rise in temperatures and increased rainfall. Between September and November, the average high temperatures move between 10.5°C (50.9°F) and 13.5°C (56.3°F). Rainfall begins its ascent to heavier drops in November, going from 16mm (0.63") in September to 36mm (1.42") in November. Despite the variable showers, sunshine duration varies from 7.3 hours to 8.7 hours, indicating clear sky conditions on several days.
Summer weather in Dunedin
December through February in Dunedin signals the onset of summer, with an average temperature fluctuating between 14.7°C (58.5°F) and 15.8°C (60.4°F). Incidence of rainfall drifts upwards and peaks in February with 43mm (1.69"), the highest average rainfall throughout the year. Despite this, with maximum daylight hours reaching up to 14.9 hours in December and an average sunshine duration of 8.7 to 10.6 hours, there’s plenty of clear sky interludes between showers.
Autumn weather in Dunedin
Autumn in Dunedin, occurring from March through May, is punctuated by a noticeable dip in temperature from 15.1°C (59.2°F) in March to 11.6°C (52.9°F) in May. Rainfall remains of substantial amount, ranging from 24mm (0.94") to 36mm (1.42"), with a spike in May. Notwithstanding these rains, autumn enjoys reasonable sunshine hours decreasing from 7.7h to 6.6h over the course of the season.
Winter weather in Dunedin
Winter in Dunedin, spanning June through August, is characterized by a steep drop in temperature, with lower limits edging down to 6.3°C (43.3°F). This season also marks the appearance of minor snowfall, specially in the month of July with an average snowfall of 3mm (0.12"). While rainfall ranges from 25mm (0.98") to 24mm (0.94") across these months, sunshine hours linger at the lower end of the scale, between 4.5h and 5.8h, and the sunlight's intensity also decreases. Despite the lower temperatures and limited sunshine, winter boasts some of the calmest wind months of the year with speeds between 21.3km/h (13.2mph) and 21.8km/h (13.5mph).
Weather in January
Starting off the year, January offers a mild summer climate in Dunedin, New Zealand. Temperatures typically run on the higher side, making it a comfortable time to engage in outdoor activities. It sets the stage for the transition into a cooler February. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February experiences a slight drop in temperature compared to January, yet it remains comfortably warm. Adding to the charm of summer, the city rarely sees snowfall during this period, enhancing the outdoor allure. With rainfall slightly higher at 43mm (1.69"), accompanying more rainy days, February has peak rainfall leading to a fresher climate. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March is a crossroads month in Dunedin, hovering between the waning summer and onset of autumn. While temperatures decline slightly, pleasant weather prevails most of the time. The city continues to be free from snowfall this month. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Dunedin brings the arrival of a cooler climate as autumn takes hold. However, this doesn't take away from the beauty of the city, the falling leaves paint a picturesque panorama. Enhanced by fewer hours of daylight and sunshine, the city takes on a uniquely serene ambiance. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is when Dunedin truly starts to feel the arrival of winter. As the month progresses, the fall in temperature becomes more noticeable and night times especially can be rather chilly. The city's first hint of the coming winter is the lack of any snowfall. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June is the gateway to winter in Dunedin. Often, the month sees the weather taking a significant turn, with temperature dropping further. Mild winds could be experienced throughout June, setting the tone for the next few months. The humidity remains almost constant at 77% identical to its preceding and subsequent months. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Dunedin bears the full brunt of winter. During this month, temperatures dip further down the scale, and the days become noticeably shorter. Across all twelve months, July records the first snowfall at 3mm (0.12"), aligning with the onset of the city's coldest period. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August witnesses a slight relief from the intense cold experienced in July. Marked by slightly longer daylight hours, the transition towards spring begins. The city continues to showcase snowfall, however in a lesser magnitude compared to July. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Dunedin, New Zealand represents the beginning of spring. A noticeable increase in temperatures complimented by longer sunshine hours provide a warmer climate. Rainfall during September drops down to 16mm (0.63"), the lowest through the entire calendar year. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October takes the spring spirit further with temperatures continuing to rise. The perceived drop in relative humidity which stands at 77% is accompanied by lengthier sunshine hours, fostering an enhanced outdoor atmosphere. Showers become more frequent compared to September bearing witness to a growth in rainwater levels. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November experiences an influx of warmer temperatures, providing a significant cue towards the arrival of the summer season. Despite the occasional showers, outdoor activities are quite enjoyable due to the extended sunshine hours. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Dunedin marks the commencement of summer offering warmer temperatures, more sunshine, and longer days. The Christmas celebrations ensue under the clear blue sky, with the temperatures rising and making for enjoyable holiday weather. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 27, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Dunedin?
Throughout the year, there are 150.6 rainfall days, and 357mm (14.06") of precipitation is accumulated.
When it does not snow in Dunedin?
In Dunedin, snow does not fall in January through July, September through December.
How much does it snow in Dunedin?
Throughout the year, in Dunedin, New Zealand, 3mm (0.12") of snow is accumulated.
What are the months with the highest UV index in Dunedin?
January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 4, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the hottest time of year in Dunedin?
In Dunedin, the peak average temperatures are observed in February, with a high of 15.8°C (60.4°F) and a low of 11.7°C (53.1°F).
What is the rainiest month in Dunedin?
February is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 12.2 days and accumulates 43mm (1.69") of precipitation.
What month is the sea warmest in Dunedin?
With an average sea temperature of 13.8°C (56.8°F), February is the month with the warmest seawater in Dunedin, New Zealand.
What is the most humid month in Dunedin?
The months with the highest humidity in Dunedin, New Zealand, are March and December, with an average relative humidity of 80%.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Dunedin?
On Sunday, 07. April 2024, at 3:00 am, Daylight Saving Time ends in Dunedin, 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 are the months with the lowest UV index in Dunedin?
April through October, with an average maximum UV index of 3, are months with the lowest UV index in Dunedin, New Zealand.
What is the month with the shortest days in Dunedin?
With an average of 8h and 42min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Dunedin?
With an average of 4.5h of sunshine, June has the least sunshine of the year in Dunedin.
What part of the year is the coldest in Dunedin?
The lowest temperatures in Dunedin are recorded in July, with averages reaching a high of 9.2°C (48.6°F) and a low of 6.3°C (43.3°F).
What is the least humid month in Dunedin?
The least humid month is July, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
When does it snow in Dunedin?
The only month with snowfall in Dunedin, New Zealand, is August.
What is the snowiest month in Dunedin?
August is the month with the most snowfall in Dunedin. Snow falls for 0.7 days and accumulates 3mm (0.12") of snow.
When is the sea coldest in Dunedin?
The month with the coldest seawater in Dunedin, New Zealand, is August, with an average sea temperature of 9.2°C (48.6°F).
What is the driest month in Dunedin?
The month with the least rainfall in Dunedin is September, when the rain falls for 11.4 days and typically collects 16mm (0.63") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Dunedin?
The month with the longest days in Dunedin is December, with an average of 15h and 42min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Dunedin?
With an average of 10.6h of sunshine, December has the most sunshine of the year in Dunedin, New Zealand.
Average temperature
Dunedin, New Zealand
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (15.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (9.2°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (11.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (6.3°C).
Average pressure
Dunedin, New Zealand
- Average pressure in January:
1010.1mbar - Average pressure in February:
1013.8mbar - Average pressure in March:
1016.2mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.2mbar - Average pressure in May:
1011.8mbar - Average pressure in June:
1014.5mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1012.2mbar - Average pressure in August:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1009.8mbar - Average pressure in October:
1009.9mbar - Average pressure in November:
1009.7mbar - Average pressure in December:
1010.9mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is March (1016.2mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (1009.7mbar).
Average wind speed
Dunedin, New Zealand
- Average wind speed in January:
20.7km/h - Average wind speed in February:
18.4km/h - Average wind speed in March:
18.8km/h - Average wind speed in April:
19.9km/h - Average wind speed in May:
21km/h - Average wind speed in June:
21.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
21.3km/h - Average wind speed in August:
19km/h - Average wind speed in September:
21.1km/h - Average wind speed in October:
21.4km/h - Average wind speed in November:
20.4km/h - Average wind speed in December:
19.6km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is June (21.8km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is February (18.4km/h).
Average humidity
Dunedin, New Zealand
The months with the highest relative humidity are March and December (80%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (76%).
Average rainfall
Dunedin, New Zealand
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is February (43mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (16mm).
Average rainfall days
Dunedin, New Zealand
- Average rainfall days in January:
14.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in June:
11.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12.4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
14 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (15.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is March (11.1 days).
Average snowfall
Dunedin, New Zealand
The month with the highest snowfall is August (3mm).
The months with the least snowfall are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, September, October, November and December (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Dunedin, New Zealand
- Average snowfall days in January:
0 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0.2 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0.7 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is August (0.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are January, February, March, April, May, October and December (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Dunedin, New Zealand
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is February (13.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is August (9.2°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Dunedin, New Zealand
- Average daylight in January:
15h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in April:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
8h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
9h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
15h and 4min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 15h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 8h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
4h and 3min
- Average sunshine in July:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
10h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 4h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Dunedin, New Zealand
- Average sunshine days in January:
13.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
13.9 days - Average sunshine days in March:
17.9 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
17 days - Average sunshine days in June:
15 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
16.6 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
14.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
14.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is March (17.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (13.4 days).
Average UV index
Dunedin, New Zealand
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Dunedin, New Zealand
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 45).
The month with the least cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 40).
Average visibility
Dunedin, New Zealand
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
