Snowfall in Christchurch- A Guide to the Weather, Best Time and Activities

Nestled in the heart of the eastern coast of South Island, the city of Christchurch is one of the most exciting places to explore. It lies in Canterbury with the majestic Southern Alps in the backdrop. Winters in the city will undoubtedly be magical and snowfall in Christchurch is among the best experiences to be had!

Best Time to Visit to Witness Snowfall in Christchurch

Christchurch’s climate in winter is very cool. New Zealand's winter months June to August carry colder climate to a significant part of the nation and downpour to most regions in the North Island. Mountain ranges in the two islands become snow-capped, giving delightful spectacles and excellent slopes for skiing.

While the South Island has cooler winter temperatures, a few zones of the island get lesser precipitation. Christchurch in winter encounters a temperature around 13 degrees during the daytime and can go as low as 3 degrees with snow layering up to 11 inches over most of the city. You can enjoy numerous sports and other activities during these months. Unquestionably, the best time to visit New Zealand to witness snowfall in Christchurch is during June, July and August.

6 Best Activities to Do During Snowfall in Christchurch

1. Mount Herbert

Located on the South Island, it is the highest point on the Bank's Peninsula and the top is constantly covered with snow in winters. It is an ideal place for hiking in winters and one of the best places to see snowfall in Christchurch. The climb to the highest point of the mountain is a long 3-hour one but a phenomenal scenery over the Lyttelton Harbour and Port Hills with the Southern Alps as the lovely backdrop will compensate for it. If you are a photographer, then it will be a treat for you!

Things to do: Hike through the Diamond Harbor, Gebbies Pass, and Orton Bradley Park, enjoy views of Lyttleton harbour and the Southern Alps.

2. New Brighton Beach

There is no better option than to begin your day with a lovely view of the dawn. Set yourself up to witness the wondrous dawn at the New Brighton Beach that turns out to be perhaps the best seashores close to Christchurch. The cherry on the top is before the sun rises the temperature drops a couple of degrees, freezing the seashore sand and making some astounding designs. Be prepared to see the astounding view of the sunrise and remember to take your camera. Try to set aside some time and effort for shopping in Christchurch.

Things To Do: Watch the sunrise, walk by the sea sand shore, go shopping for handmade goods at the weekly market, surfing, bird spotting.

3. Ice Skating

Ice skating is an exciting indoor activity for the cold weather months. Christchurch has its indoor ice skating arena and everybody is permitted to engage themselves. Regardless of whether you are a novice learning the fundamentals or an expert with complex pirouette abilities, you can make the most of your time at the skating arena. Additionally, throughout the winter months, you can appreciate an intriguing Ice Hockey League match with your companions.

4. Matariki: The Festival of Lights

The winter celebration of lights, Matariki, happens in mid-June in Christchurch. A festival of the Maori New Year, the roads and markets in Lyttelton are lit up, and food counters selling hot mulled wine and food are set up all over the place. Also, the epic firecrackers show that light up the skies of Christchurch is worth the watch.

Things To Do: Relish the food, mulled wine and cider from the stalls, take a stroll to enjoy lit-up streets, and enjoy the fireworks.

5. Tekapo Springs

A three-hour scenic drive from Christchurch, Tekapo Lake is perhaps the best lake in Christchurch and is brimming with fun and recreation activities. If you are searching for a relaxed outing, Tekapo Springs is not a bad option. Situated in the beautiful country, Mackenzie Tekapo Springs is the ideal area for open-air ice skating, sledging, tobogganing and stargazing. You can also loosen up at the Tekapo Springs Glacial Spa that gives hot pool amenities and you can take a dunk in one of these hot pools and unwind on a cool winter day.

Things To Do: Stargazing, tobogganing, ice skating. Take a dip in the hot pools.

6. Skiing

If you do not ski in Christchurch, you do nothing! It has a range of ski areas suitable for both beginners and pros. Enjoy the incredible mountain backdrops, local eateries, and huge ski slopes that Christchurch offers. There are multiple ski areas in proximity to Christchurch. The six most popular ones are:

1. Mount Hutt - One and a half hour drive from Christchurch. Suitable for all skill levels.
2. Porters Ski Area - One and a half hour drive from Christchurch. Suitable for all skill levels.
3. Mount Cheeseman -  One hour and 45 minutes drive from Christchurch. Suitable for all skill levels.
4. Broken River Ski Area - One hour and 45 minutes drive from Christchurch. Suitable for experienced skiers and boarders.
5. Craigieburn Valley Ski Area -  One hour and 45 minutes drive from Christchurch. Suitable for experienced skiers and boarders.
6. Mount Olympus - Two hours from Christchurch. Suitable for all skill levels.

Christchurch is a place one can visit during any time of the year but it comes alive during winter and to see the snowfall in Christchurch is one of just many reasons. It is welcoming and enjoyable at all times and charms everyone with its urban yet natural appearance.