What July feels like in Christchurch
July is mid-winter in Christchurch (Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons run opposite to Europe and North America). Afternoons reach about 10.5°C (50.9°F), the coolest of the year: fine for walking in a proper jacket. Nights fall to about 3°C (37.4°F), 7.5°C (13.5°F) below the afternoon, so mornings start cold. Humidity averages 83%, more humid than usual here: damp air makes a cool day feel cooler, especially in wind.
Rain in Christchurch in July
Expect rain on about 9 of 31 days, with dry spells in between; wet days bring about 6.7 mm (0.3 in), steady rain rather than a passing shower, close to the city's usual 6.2 mm.
How July compares to the rest of the year
July is the coolest month of the year; afternoons are only 0.4°C (0.7°F) cooler than in June, with 9 mm less rain. This is the low point: August warms up to about 11.6°C (52.9°F).
July in Christchurch: what 20 years show
Based on monthly averages from 2006–2025, not daily records.
Usual range
In most years July averages 10–12°C (49–53°F) in the afternoon, with 29–114 mm of rain. Rain falls about one day in 3 in an average July.
Records
| Record | Year | Avg high | Rain | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warmest July | 2019 | 11.9°C (53.4°F) | 84 mm | 12 |
| Coldest July | 2009 | 9°C (48.2°F) | 35 mm | 7 |
| Wettest July | 2022 | 10.5°C (50.9°F) | 204 mm | 16 |
| Driest July | 2011 | 9.7°C (49.5°F) | 18 mm | 5 |
Odds across years
In 6 of 20 years, July had 10 or more rainy days. In 5 of 20 years, it had under 35 mm of rain. In 5 of 20 years, the average high reached 11°C (51.8°F) or more. In 8 of 20 years, it stayed below 10°C (50°F).
Who July suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — comfortable on foot with a jacket.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — a little too cool to sit outside for long.
Tips for visiting Christchurch in July
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag for the wet days.
Warm Layers
A warm jacket and a hat for cold mornings and evenings.
What to wear in Christchurch in July
These are estimates from monthly averages, so read each temperature as "around".
By time of day
- Morning, around 5°C (40°F): a warm jacket and a hat, with a layer underneath.
- Afternoon, around 11°C (51°F): keep the jacket for walking; you can drop the extra layer.
- Evening, around 7°C (44°F): put the layer back on.
Cold year or warm year
In a cold year like 2009, July highs averaged only 9°C (48.2°F), so one extra warm layer is worth packing. In a warm year like 2019 they reached 11.9°C (53.4°F), and a lighter layer would do.
Packing for 7 days
Expect about 2 wet days in a week, with about 6.7 mm (0.3 in) on each.
- A warm jacket and a hat
- 2 warm mid-layers
- A packable rain jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
Travelling on specific dates? Check your exact dates in the Trip Planner.
Quick questions
How warm is Christchurch in July?
Afternoons average 10.5°C (50.9°F) and nights about 3°C (37.4°F), chilly by most people's standards; it is the coolest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Christchurch in July?
Yes: rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 60 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Christchurch in July?
Pack rain protection and warm layers, plus a layer for cold mornings and evenings.
Is July or August better for visiting Christchurch?
August scores slightly better on our climate ranking (#10 of 12 vs #11). August is warmer.
