There is notable variability in mean monthly wind speeds over the course of a year in New Zealand, where wind speeds are typically highest from around mid-spring (October) to mid-summer (January), and lowest from mid-autumn to the end of winter (April to August).

New Zealand is famously situated in the "Roaring Forties," making it a windy country year-round, but the windiest months are typically October and November (Spring). During this transition period, "equinoctial gales" occur as the Southern Hemisphere shifts from winter to summer, creating strong westerly pressure systems. Wellington, officially the windiest city in the world, sees its highest average wind speeds during these months, often exceeding 60 km/h (37 mph) in the gusts. For travelers in 2026, this means that while spring offers beautiful blooming landscapes, it can be the most challenging time for outdoor activities like kayaking or cycling. Conversely, the "settled" months of January and February (Summer) tend to be much calmer, making them the preferred time for mountain hiking and scenic flights. If you are visiting the South Island’s West Coast or the Cook Strait, expect high winds even in the summer, as the mountainous terrain creates unique wind funnels that can disrupt ferry crossings and small aircraft schedules at any time of year.