Things to Do in Auckland in December

December Weather in Auckland

21°C (71°F) High Temp

15°C (59°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak summer season with 15+ hours of daylight - outdoor activities possible until 9pm with warm 21°C (71°F) temperatures perfect for harbour activities and beach visits
School holidays create vibrant festival atmosphere - Auckland Arts Festival, outdoor cinema screenings, and extended opening hours at attractions like Kelly Tarlton's and Sky Tower
Waiheke Island ferry services run extended schedules with perfect 21°C (71°F) weather for vineyard tours and beach hopping - sea temperatures reach 19°C (66°F)
Christmas and New Year celebrations transform the city - Silo Park markets, harbour fireworks, and outdoor dining culture at its absolute peak with extended daylight hours

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% and popular attractions like Rotorua day trips book out 3-4 weeks in advance
Unpredictable summer storms can bring sudden downpours - 10 rainy days expected with afternoon thunderstorms that shut down outdoor activities for 1-2 hours
Heat and humidity (70%) can be uncomfortable for walking tours between 11am-3pm - UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and forces indoor breaks

Best Activities in December

Waiheke Island Wine Tours

December's 21°C (71°F) temperatures and 15-hour daylight make this the perfect month for vineyard visits. Ferry rides are comfortable with sea breezes, and extended daylight means you can do a full day tour with evening return. Summer harvest season adds authenticity to tastings. Crowds are manageable on weekdays.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend tours, typically NZ$180-250 including ferry transport. Weekday tours offer better pricing and smaller groups. Look for operators that include return ferry tickets and provide shade structures during tastings.

Harbour Sailing and Water Activities

Perfect sailing conditions with consistent sea breezes and calm waters. December's long daylight hours allow for sunset sailing tours that don't start until 6pm. Water temperature of 19°C (66°F) is comfortable for swimming and snorkeling. America's Cup boats offer thrilling experiences in ideal summer conditions.

Booking Tip: Book sailing tours 10-14 days ahead, typically NZ$120-200 for 2-3 hour experiences. Afternoon tours (2pm-5pm) offer best wind conditions. Look for operators with enclosed cabin options for sudden rain showers.

Hauraki Gulf Island Hopping

December offers the calmest sea conditions for ferry travel to Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi, and Great Barrier Island. Perfect 21°C (71°F) weather for hiking volcanic trails and bird watching. Extended ferry schedules during summer holidays allow full-day exploration without rushing.

Booking Tip: Ferry combinations typically NZ$40-80 per person depending on island. Book accommodation on Great Barrier Island 4-6 weeks ahead for December stays. Rangitoto summit hike takes 3-4 hours - start early to avoid afternoon heat.

Sky Tower and Urban Adventure Activities

Clear December weather provides stunning views from the 328m (1,076 ft) Sky Tower. Perfect conditions for SkyWalk and SkyJump with minimal wind. Extended opening hours during summer holidays. Air conditioning provides relief from 70% humidity during midday heat.

Booking Tip: Book SkyJump experiences 1-2 weeks ahead, typically NZ$225-275. Early morning (9am-11am) or late afternoon (4pm-6pm) offer best light for photos and cooler conditions. Combination tickets with other attractions save 15-20%.

West Coast Beach and Bush Walks

December's dry conditions make Piha and Karekare beaches accessible with safe swimming (lifeguards on duty). Bush walks in Waitakere Ranges offer shade during peak heat. Black sand beaches provide dramatic scenery with manageable 1-2 hour drives from city center.

Booking Tip: Guided tours typically NZ$150-220 for half-day experiences including transport. Self-drive requires 4WD for some beach access. Start early (8am departures) to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Check surf conditions - December can have strong currents.

Rotorua Day Trips

December's clear weather provides perfect conditions for the 3-hour drive to geothermal attractions. Extended daylight allows full-day experiences with 7pm returns to Auckland. Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu are less crowded on weekdays despite peak season. Natural hot pools provide contrast to Auckland's humidity.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically NZ$180-280 including transport and entry fees. Book 3-4 weeks ahead for December availability. Look for small group tours (12-16 people) that include Maori cultural experiences. Early departure (7am) essential for full experience.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Auckland Arts Festival Summer Events

Outdoor theatre performances, live music, and art installations across the city. Silo Park and Aotea Square host evening events taking advantage of extended daylight. Mix of free and ticketed performances with international and local artists.

Mid to Late December

Christmas Markets and Holiday Celebrations

Viaduct Harbour Christmas Market features local crafts, food stalls, and live music. Christmas Day celebrations at various beaches and parks. Boxing Day sales create shopping festival atmosphere in Queen Street and Newmarket.

December 31st

New Year's Eve Harbour Celebrations

Major fireworks displays from Auckland Harbour Bridge and Sky Tower. Multiple viewing locations including Viaduct Harbour, Mission Bay, and Devonport. Street parties and live music venues extend celebrations throughout the night.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off harbour water intensifies exposure

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - 10 rainy days expected with sudden afternoon thunderstorms lasting 1-2 hours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity, temperatures reach 21°C (71°F) daily

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Auckland's volcanic terrain can be slippery when wet, plus lots of hill walking

Light sweater or cardigan for evenings - temperatures drop to 15°C (59°F) and sea breezes can be cool after sunset

Swimwear and quick-dry towel - water activities and beach visits are essential December experiences

Portable phone charger - extended daylight means longer days out, GPS navigation essential for beach drives

Insect repellent for bush walks - December warmth brings out mosquitoes in Waitakere Ranges and coastal areas

Light backpack for day trips - ferry rides and island visits require carrying water, snacks, and weather protection

Casual dress clothes - December's social season includes nice restaurants and evening events, but climate is too warm for heavy fabrics

Insider Knowledge

Book Waiheke Island ferry tickets online in advance during December - walk-on passengers often wait 1-2 sailings during peak times, especially weekends

Avoid driving to popular beaches between 10am-2pm on sunny weekends - Piha and Mission Bay car parks fill completely, use early morning or late afternoon timing

Take advantage of extended shopping hours during December - many Queen Street and Newmarket stores stay open until 9pm for holiday shopping and summer crowds

Use AT HOP cards for all public transport including ferries - cash payments cost 20-30% more and December crowds make card-only lanes much faster

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating December sun intensity - tourists get severe sunburn within 90 minutes due to UV index 8 and harbour reflection, even on cloudy days

Not booking accommodation early enough - December prices increase 40-60% and availability becomes limited by November for prime locations near harbour

Planning too many outdoor activities between 11am-3pm - heat and humidity make this period uncomfortable for walking tours, save indoor attractions for midday