Climate

New Zealand Climate

Mean temperatures were up to 2.5 °C below normal in the Southern Lakes, Central Otago, and inland Canterbury, and below normal in most other regions. The only warm spot in the country was Hawke’s Bay, where temperatures were slightly above average. The February national average temperature of 16.1 °C was 1.1 °C below normal.

February rainfall records tumble

Rainfall was 400–600% of the February normal in much of the south and west of the North Island from Waikato to Wellington, including Wairarapa, and 200–300% of normal in most other North Island regions, as well as in Buller, north Westland, Marlborough, and Nelson. It was wetter than average over most other areas of the South Island.

Percentage of average rainfall for February 2004 (recording sites shown with dots). Click to enlarge.

Difference from the average air temperature in degrees Celsius for February 2004. Click to enlarge.

Difference from the normal surface water temperatures in the seas around New Zealand.