How is the scenic beauty during early December on the drive from Queenstown to Christchurch?
I have been advised to take the route through Mt. Cook. What will the climate be like?
Is there any other time of the year that may be a better option for a scenic drive (I do not want to be driving in snow)?
Answer:
The route through Mt Cook is usually fantastic at that time of year. Be warned though, it is possible for you to strike it where the weather packs in for long periods up at Mt Cook itself. This does sometimes happen in early December. The rain sets in over the mountains yet it can be beautiful weather on the east side of the Southern Alps. It depends on your luck as to how you strike it when you come here.
Early December is early summer here and generally good weather. The temperatures will be okay, especially when you get inland, unless you strike a cold air stream when you are here. In actual fact the highest temperatures ever recorded in NZ were recorded in the South Island and generally in summer it is nice and warm inland, particularly when it is sunny.
You are very unlikely to strike any snow at that time of year and driving will be good.
My recommendation for a time to travel to New Zealand is around the last week in January. All the locals head home to get their kids ready for school and there are not as many Asian tourists due to the Chinese New Year. Fantastic weather then too – possibly too hot if anything!
Hope you enjoy your visit to New Zealand…
From my personal experience of 3 years working in the weather office and 13 years living half an hour from Mount Cook.
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