North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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 North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to North Canterbury, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand by month

January

January in North Canterbury is freezing, somewhat snowy, very rainy and somewhat stormy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) to 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option 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

February

If you are traveling to North Canterbury in February, you will notice that it is frigid, somewhat snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports 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 North Canterbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

In March, North Canterbury is freezing, somewhat snowy, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for North Canterbury, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

April

April in North Canterbury is cold, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

May

May in North Canterbury is pretty cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Canterbury. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like 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. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

June

June for North Canterbury can be very chilly, somewhat rainy and very stormy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Canterbury. 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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change 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

July

July in North Canterbury is cold, very rainy and extremely stormy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 90% to 100% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Canterbury. 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.

  • 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 bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

In August, North Canterbury can be very chilly, very rainy and extremely stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for North Canterbury, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 100%. Additionally, it is windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

September is pretty cool, somewhat rainy and very stormy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel 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 frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Canterbury. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold 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 areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

In October, North Canterbury is pretty cool, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for North Canterbury, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

November in North Canterbury can be very chilly, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time and snows once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Canterbury. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

December

December is very cold, somewhat snowy, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time and snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Canterbury. 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 these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand

North Canterbury, Alaska is a region in New Zealand that is renowned for its stunning scenery, world-class vineyards, and picturesque villages. With its combination of natural beauty and vibrant culture, North Canterbury has become a highly popular destination for tourists looking to explore New Zealand. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in North Canterbury, Alaska.

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs is a renowned thermal resort town, which is located approximately 90 minutes from Christchurch. The town is blessed with geothermal hot springs that are well known for their relaxing qualities. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is a must-visit attraction in the town. The pools offer a range of relaxing experiences, including hot pools, cool pools, a lazy river, and luxurious private pools. There are also several walking tracks in Hanmer Springs, which are ideal for exploring the surrounding forest.

Waipara Wine Region

The Waipara Wine Region is located only an hour's drive from Christchurch, and it boasts some of New Zealand's most renowned vineyards. The region is famed for its rich, mineral-rich soils, which are perfect for growing grape vines. Visitors to the region can enjoy wine tours, barrel tastings, and meals at vineyard restaurants. The Waipara Wine and Food Trail is an excellent way to explore the region.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a small coastal town that is famous for its marine life. The town is located on the east coast of the South Island and is renowned for its stunning scenery. Visitors to the town can enjoy whale watching, dolphin encounters, and seal colony tours. The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a popular walking trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.

Mount Hutt Ski Area

Mount Hutt Ski Area is a popular ski resort that is located 90 minutes from Christchurch. The resort is one of the largest in New Zealand, and it boasts a range of ski runs and facilities for all skill levels. Visitors to the resort can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and is regarded as the gateway to the region. The city is famous for its Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant culture. Visitors to Christchurch can enjoy a range of activities, including visiting the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, exploring the city's museums and galleries, and taking part in guided tours.

In conclusion, North Canterbury, Alaska is a region that is packed with natural beauty, culture, and history. From relaxation to adventure, there is something for everyone in this stunning part of New Zealand. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a solo adventure, North Canterbury, Alaska is the perfect destination. The above-listed attractions are just a few of the many reasons why this part of New Zealand is so popular with tourists.

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: Busha, Ukraine, Tehama County, California, United States of America, Kemerhisar, Turkey, Potters Bar, England, United Kingdom, Falmouth, England, United Kingdom, Goosenecks State Park, Utah, United States of America, Glenmont, Maryland, United States of America, Marmara, Turkey, Waupaca, Wisconsin, United States of America, Forfar, Scotland, United Kingdom, and Gimhae, South Korea.