What February feels like in Christchurch
February is late summer in Christchurch (Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons run opposite to Europe and North America). Afternoons reach about 21.2°C (70.2°F), close to the January peak: comfortable in light layers. Nights fall to about 12.8°C (55°F), 8.4°C (15.1°F) below the afternoon, so evenings call for a layer. Humidity averages 71%: the air is moist, though it rarely feels heavy at these temperatures.
Rain in Christchurch in February
Rain turns up on about 6 of 28 days, among the three driest months of the year; wet days bring about 7.7 mm (0.3 in), enough to soak you without an umbrella, close to the city's usual 6.2 mm.
How February compares to the rest of the year
February is the 2nd warmest month of the year, and about as warm as January, with about the same rain. Temperatures keep falling into March, to about 19.4°C (66.9°F).
February in Christchurch: what 20 years show
Based on monthly averages from 2006–2025, not daily records.
Usual range
In most years February averages 19–23°C (67–73°F) in the afternoon, with 16–79 mm of rain. Rain falls about one day in 5 in an average February.
Records
| Record | Year | Avg high | Rain | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warmest February | 2016 | 23.6°C (74.5°F) | 17 mm | 3 |
| Coolest February | 2022 | 19.1°C (66.4°F) | 181 mm | 13 |
| Wettest February | 2022 | 19.1°C (66.4°F) | 181 mm | 13 |
| Driest February | 2017 | 21.1°C (70°F) | 10 mm | 6 |
Odds across years
In 7 of 20 years, February had 8 or more rainy days. In 4 of 20 years, it had under 20 mm of rain. In 3 of 20 years, the average high reached 22°C (71.6°F) or more. In 7 of 20 years, it stayed below 21°C (69.8°F).
Who February suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — daytime temperatures are fine for walking around.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — comfortable for long walks and picnics.
Tips for visiting Christchurch in February
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights, so bring layers you can add or remove.
Sunglasses
Sun comes and goes, but sunglasses are still worth a place in your bag.
What to wear in Christchurch in February
These are estimates from monthly averages, so read each temperature as "around".
By time of day
- Morning, around 14°C (58°F): a light jacket or sweater.
- Afternoon, around 21°C (70°F): a light top is enough, with the jacket to hand.
- Evening, around 17°C (63°F): bring the jacket back.
Cooler year or hotter year
In a cooler year like 2022, February highs averaged 19.1°C (66.4°F), so a light extra layer is worth packing. In a hotter year like 2016 they reached 23.6°C (74.5°F), so keep your clothes light.
Packing for 7 days
Expect about 2 wet days in a week, with about 7.7 mm (0.3 in) on each.
- A light jacket or sweater
- 2 or 3 light layers
- Sunglasses and a light hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
Travelling on specific dates? Check your exact dates in the Trip Planner.
Quick questions
How warm is Christchurch in February?
Afternoons average 21.2°C (70.2°F) and nights about 12.8°C (55°F), mild by most people's standards; it is the 2nd warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Christchurch in February?
Not especially: about 6 rainy days (46 mm), mostly moderate rain.
What should I wear in Christchurch in February?
Pack versatile layers and sunglasses, plus a layer for cool mornings and evenings.
Is February or March better for visiting Christchurch?
February scores slightly better on our climate ranking (#1 of 12 vs #2). March is cooler and has more rainy days.
