Things to Do in Christchurch in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Christchurch
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak summer weather with long daylight hours (sunrise 5:30am, sunset 8:30pm) - perfect for exploring the rebuilt central city and outdoor activities
- Canterbury Plains turn golden in December heat, creating stunning photography conditions for Mount Cook and Southern Alps views on clear days
- Festival season begins with December events leading into New Year celebrations - locals are in holiday mood and outdoor venues come alive
- School holidays start mid-December but international tourists haven't peaked yet - better accommodation rates and restaurant availability than January-February
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather shifts from 28°C (82°F) to 12°C (54°F) within hours due to Canterbury's notorious nor'west winds - pack layers always
- December marks fire season with occasional total fire bans restricting outdoor cooking and some walking tracks in surrounding hills
- Accommodation prices jump 40-60% from December 20th onwards as both Kiwi families and international visitors arrive for summer holidays
Best Activities in December
Banks Peninsula Scenic Drives and Wildlife Viewing
December's warm weather brings fur seal pups to Akaroa Harbor shores and Little Blue penguins are most active at dusk. The 75km (47 miles) Summit Road offers unobstructed views of Canterbury Plains without winter fog. French Bay and other peninsula beaches are swimmable in December temperatures.
Port Hills Mountain Biking and Walking Tracks
December's long daylight hours and minimal rainfall make this the premium month for Port Hills adventures. The Sign of the Kiwi track and Godley Head offer spectacular harbor views without winter's biting winds. Morning temperatures around 15°C (59°F) are perfect for uphill climbs before afternoon heat.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park Festivals
December brings the gardens' rose collection into full bloom while heritage trees provide crucial shade during 25°C+ (77°F+) days. The Avon River punt operates extended summer hours, and outdoor concerts begin in Hagley Park as the city's festival season launches.
Canterbury Wine Region Cycling Tours
December harvest season means wineries offer behind-the-scenes picking experiences alongside tastings. The flat Canterbury Plains terrain and stable summer weather create ideal cycling conditions. Waipara Valley, 65km (40 miles) north, reaches peak grape ripeness in December.
TranzAlpine Railway and Arthur's Pass Day Trips
December's clear weather maximizes Southern Alps visibility during the 4.5-hour journey to Arthur's Pass. Alpine flowers bloom in summer while beech forests show full green canopy. December's long days allow morning departure with afternoon exploration time before return journey.
Christchurch Farmers Markets and Outdoor Food Festivals
December brings Canterbury's summer produce peak - Central Otago stone fruits, Akaroa salmon, and local berries flood weekend markets. The warm weather activates food truck gatherings and evening outdoor dining districts that close during winter months.
December Events & Festivals
World Buskers Festival
International street performers take over central Christchurch squares and parks. Free outdoor entertainment with optional koha donations. Acts range from comedy to acrobatics, taking advantage of December's long daylight hours for extended performances.
Canterbury A&P Show Summer Events
Pre-season agricultural displays and rural competitions showcase Canterbury's farming heritage. Includes sheepdog trials, vintage machinery displays, and local food vendors. Celebrates the region's agricultural prosperity during summer season.