Lyttelton, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Lyttelton, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Lyttelton, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lyttelton, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Lyttelton, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lyttelton, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lyttelton, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lyttelton, New Zealand by month

January

If you vacation in Lyttelton during January, you are likely to notice that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you visit Lyttelton during February, you will probably see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

March

If you visit Lyttelton during March, you might notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

If you are traveling to Lyttelton in April, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you go to Lyttelton in May, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in Lyttelton can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

July

If you visit Lyttelton during July, you are likely to see that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

August

August here can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you go to Lyttelton in September, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you choose the correct type. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

October

October in Lyttelton can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

November

November is cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

Traveling to Lyttelton in December, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    New Zealand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyttelton. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

What to do in Lyttelton, New Zealand

Lyttelton, known as the "Gateway to Canterbury," is a small seaport town located in the Banks Peninsula in New Zealand. It is one of the country's oldest and most charming towns, with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and an array of interesting attractions. Whether you are interested in history, culture, wildlife, or just relaxing in a picturesque setting, Lyttelton has something to offer. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to explore during your visit.

1. Lyttelton Farmers Market: If you're seeking fresh produce, locally-made crafts, and a relaxed atmosphere, be sure to check out the Lyttelton Farmers Market. Held every Saturday morning, the market is a great place to immerse yourself in the local scene, taste some of the country's best food, and stock up on souvenirs.

2. Timeball Station: If you're a history buff or a maritime enthusiast, the Timeball Station is a must-see attraction. Built in 1876, this iconic structure stands on the hill above Lyttelton and served as a navigation aid for ships navigating the harbour.

3. Lyttelton Harbour: If you are looking for some of the best views of the harbour, there is no one better place than the Lyttelton Harbour itself. The harbour views are simply incredible, and there are plenty of options for water-based activities, including fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

4. Godley Head: A visit to Godley Head offers unparalleled views of the harbour and the Pacific Ocean beyond, and also offers a chance to glimpse rare New Zealand wildlife. Along the trails, visitors might encounter the likes of New Zealand fur seals, yellow-eyed penguins, and a diversity of seabirds.

5. Lyttelton Harbour Cruise: Experience Lyttelton's stunning scenery and history by taking a harbour cruise. These guided tours offer the chance to see some of the harbour's most famous landmarks and learn about the town's fascinating seafaring history.

6. Lyttelton Dolomite Point: If you like rock formations, don't miss out on the impressive dolomite cliffs in Lyttelton. These cliffs and rock formations offer a breathtaking and photogenic view, giving visitors a glimpse of the wonder of nature.

Lyttelton may be small, but it is packed with amazing things to see and do. Take time to explore this charming town and enjoy its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, you'll find that Lyttelton has something for everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Beach Haven, New Jersey, United States of America, Jersey City, New Jersey, United States of America, Ochamchire, Abkhazia, Pennsville, Delaware, United States of America, Nata, Botswana, Sutri, Italy, Dharamsala, India, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy, Dhulikhel, Nepal, Klang, Malaysia, and Ballylinan, Ireland.