The official description of the West Coast climate is Maritime Temperate. This means that the sea has a large influence on the weather. Our reputation for rainfall is legendary, however as you will see in the many photographs contained on this site there are wonderful, clear blue and sunny skies.

On average we have a 75% chance of a day with sunshine. This combination of sun, rain and mild temperatures is responsible for the lush grassland and the vibrant steaming rainforest that surrounds us. Photographs of the West Coast 'clean & green' image are often sent around the world to represent the unspoilt environment in New Zealand.