June is the first month of winter in New Zealand, which is a particularly popular time of year for visitors who want to enjoy snow and ski sports. June brings colder weather to much of the country with more rain for most of the North Island. On both North and South islands, the mountain ranges experience snowfall, providing picture-postcard scenery as well as great skiing opportunities.
Needless to say, visitors to New Zealand in June need to pack warm and waterproof clothing – although if luggage space is at premium, ski clothing can usually be hired especially in major skiing centres. If Auckland is one of your destinations during June, pack for its rainy weather. The city receives most of its rain during June, July and August.
Temperatures on the South Island are cooler than on the North Island, but as rainfall is less, the clear, crisp days (wonderful with clear, blue skies and winter sunshine) offer the perfect time for visiting the West Coast glaciers, Southern Alps and other areas of particular beauty. Average North Island temperatures during June range from 4-16°C and in the South, between 1-12°C.
New Zealand Ski Season
The ski season typically runs from June through to late October. June and July offer great powder skiing, whilst August is considered to be one of the best months in which to ski. At the end of June, schools tend to have a two-week break, so if you want quieter slopes plan your trip around this accordingly. Skiing is popular in New Zealand with families as many ski fields offer nursery slopes and coaching for young skiers, as well as adult beginners.
North Island Ski Areas
View more about North Island ski fields
South Island Ski Areas
View more about South Island ski fields
Alpine weather in June, as at any other time of year, is notoriously unpredictable. To enjoy ski and snowfields safely, always view the latest snow reports for the region you are in.
The Hottest Event in Cold Weather!
Don’t miss the Queenstown Winter Festival (June/July) – 10 action packed days of entertainment, snow sports including ski and snowboarding displays, food, dance, music and Mardi Gras.
Weather By Month
Our overview of New Zealand’s typical weather by month can help you plan your holiday, unmissable highlights for the month (e.g. events and festivals), sightseeing and activities and even your packing. But do be warned – these are not weather forecasts, so expect some of the unexpected during your stay!
| Spring Weather | Summer Weather | Autumn Weather | Winter Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | December | March | June |
| October | January | April | July |
| November | February | May | August |
Weather in the Major Centres
Find out: where to expect ‘four seasons in one day’, where to find New Zealand’s semi-tropical regions, which city is the sunniest, where to experience the most rainfall and discover which city is the country’s windiest.
| North Island Weather and Climate | South Island Weather and Climate |
|---|---|
| Auckland | Christchurch |
| Bay of Islands | Queenstown |
| Rotorua | |
| Wellington |
