New Zealand experienced a mild September with varying rainfall patterns
Tuesday 6 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Earth Sciences New Zealand, Taranaki Regional Council
The nationwide average temperature for September was 11C, which is 0.4C above the long-term average. While much of the North Island remained dry, parts of the South Island experienced heavy rainfall during the month.
Key facts
5 facts
- September nationwide average temperature was 11C
- Highest September temperature was 24.8C at Whakatu
- Lowest September temperature was -6.1C at Pukaki Aerodrome
- Strongest September wind gust was 222kmh at Cape Turnagain
- Highest one-day rainfall in September was 154mm at Mt Cook Village
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
New Zealand's nationwide average temperature for September was 11C, which is 0.4C above the 1991-2020 average. The month saw varied rainfall, with much of the North Island remaining dry while parts of the South Island were wet. The southernmost parts of the North Island also experienced a wet month.
Wind extremes included a 222kmh gust at Cape Turnagain on September 10.
Among the six main centres, Tauranga was the warmest and driest, while Christchurch was the sunniest and coolest. Wellington was the wettest centre and Hamilton recorded the least sunshine.
Nelson is currently the sunniest location in the country for 2026 with 2056 hours recorded. Whakatāne, New Plymouth, and Richmond follow as the next sunniest areas.
Where reports differ
- One report focuses on September climate data while the other provides August and winter 2026 data for Taranaki
Compiled from reports by Stuff and The Post.
