South Pacific Sailing  
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Sailing Holidays in New Zealand with South Pacific Sailing
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New Zealand Weather and Tides

Weather & Tides

The warm water of the tropical South Pacific flow westward along the equator. When the current turns south it produces a semi tropical maritime climate enjoyed by the Bay of Islands. The tempered environment influences the summer from getting too hot (Nov. -April, the seasons are reversed in the southern hemisphere). The spring and fall are mild and the bay area is referred to as 'winterless'.

The seasons in New Zealand are summer from December to February, autumn (fall) from March to May, winter from June to August and spring from September to November. The climate is mostly temperate but varies from North to South.

The North Island is slightly warmer, but only marginally. The South Island average summer temperature is 21C down to 1C in winter. Indeed, destinations such as Invercargill on the southern coast can experience bitterly cold winter temperature assisted by the southerly Antarctic winds. The north island summer temperature averages 23C dropping to 8C in winter. If travelling around the country, it is probably a good idea to pack a little of every type of clothing, from wet weather gear to a bathing suit.

Averages by Month Average F° Average C°
January 80 26.8
February 79 26.4
March 75 24
April 70 20.8
May 60 15.6
June 60 15.6
July 60 15.6
August 60 15.6
september 63 17.1
October 68 19.9
November 71 21.8
December 77 24.8

Water Temperature
High season - approximately 20C to 15C.
For warm-blooded creatures a wet suit is advised for divers.

Temperatures

  • High Season
    Summer from mid-December to end February ñ varies from moderate to light winds. Temperatures during the day can reach up to 28/30 C. Sea breezes appear about 11.00 am from a north to northeast quarter and will disappear around 6.00 pm.
  • Mid Season
    Fall from March trough mid April ñ cooler temperatures averaging 25C with good, consistent sailing breezes/mid season. Spring mid October through mid December ñ cooler temperatures in October averaging 21 C, changeable, with some strong breezes. November to mid December temperatures increasing, averaging 23/25C.
  • Low season
    Winteris from mid April through to mid October -cool, averaging day time 16C very cool evening. Changeable

Tides
There is a marked tidal fluctuation within the cruising area. The range is approximately 1.6m During low tide, large mudflats are exposed along some of the coastline and inner harbour areas.

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