Why summer is the best time to explore renting in Wellington
There is nothing quite like Wellington on a good day. The harbour sparkles, the wind behaves (mostly) and the whole city feels like it has hit the reset button. January brings that lifted summer mood where you suddenly remember how beautiful this city is.
For renters, it is the perfect time to explore, enjoy and picture where you want to be living in the year ahead. And if you are window-shopping rentals for next year, you could not ask for a better backdrop than a golden Wellington summer.
Why summer is the best time to explore Wellington neighbourhoods
Summer shows Wellington at its best. Streets feel busier, cafes spill onto footpaths, and neighbourhoods reveal their true rhythm with people outside and moving about.
If you are browsing rentals or casually window-shopping for next year, this is the season to wander. Take evening walks, explore side streets, sit in local parks and notice how each suburb feels when the sun is out. You quickly learn which areas feel lively, which feel calm, and which suit your day-to-day routine best.
It’s also when you start to notice something else that really matters in Wellington. The sun.
Looking for the sunniest suburb in Wellington?
Every Wellingtonian has their own mental map of where the sun tends to linger. Some places warm up earlier in the day, some hold onto the light well into the evening, and others feel noticeably brighter even when the rest of the city is still shaking off the shade.
Sunshine in Wellington is rarely uniform. It changes from street to street, hill to hill and even house to house. But there are a few suburbs that consistently stand out when the weather plays along.
Oriental Bay and Roseneath
Well known for morning light, and stunning harbour views. When the sun is out, it is easy to see why these are two of Wellington’s most desirable suburbs.
Mount Victoria
Elevation helps, many homes in Mt Vic enjoy longer daylight hours and good natural light.
Further north of Wellington Central
Suburbs further north of Wellington are often just that one degree warmer. Areas like Whitby, Aotea, Plimmerton and Kapiti are often chosen by renters looking for light, open outlooks, more spaceand homes that are situated to make the most of the sun.
Sun in Wellington is all about knowing where to look.
Summer sunspots around Wellington suburbs
One of the easiest ways to get a feel for a neighbourhood is to spend time there in summer. These are the kinds of spots locals head for when the sun is out.
- Swim, picnic or walk along the sandy shore at Oriental Bay Beach.
- Head up the Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway for panoramic harbour views.
- Explore Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā with themed gardens, picnics and summer events.
- Ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car up to Kelburn for views and access to trails.
Tips for keeping your home cool throughout the Wellington summer:
✔ Open windows on opposite sides of the home when you can. Creating airflow helps release heat.
✔ Pull curtains and blinds back during the day to let natural light in, then close them later if rooms start to heat up.
✔ If your property has a deck, balcony or shared outdoor space, summer is the time to give it a quick clean.
✔ Appliances like dryers and ovens can add heat indoors, avoiding these can help cool down your home.
✔ Summer is also a good moment to notice how your home behaves overall. Where the sun comes in, which rooms stay warm, and where shade falls will all matter again when winter returns.
New year, new place?
Has summer got you thinking about what you want from your home? Maybe you want to be closer to the water. Maybe you want a place with a deck for evening drinks. Maybe you want more sun or simply a different suburb’s energy.
Browsing rentals in January gives you an advantage. You see homes in their best light, literally. You get to test walkability, explore cafes, check out the parks and see how the neighbourhood feels on a warm evening.
Wellington summer renting: common questions
Does sun exposure make a home warmer?
Natural light can make a noticeable difference to warmth and comfort, especially during cooler months. Homes that get good sun often feel drier and require less heating overall.
Are coastal suburbs sunnier?
Coastal areas can feel brighter due to open outlooks and reflected light from the water. Morning sun is often a highlight, particularly in harbour-facing suburbs. However, they are not sunnier due to being close to the water rather how the water reflects on the property.
Can summer viewings be misleading?
Summer shows homes in their best light, literally. While this is helpful, it is still worth asking about winter sun, heating and insulation so you understand how the home performs year-round.
Does sunshine affect power bills?
A sunnier home may rely less on heating and artificial lighting, which can help reduce power use over time.
Myth busting Wellington summer vs winter
Myth: You need the “sunniest” suburb to enjoy summer
Reality: Wellington summer shows up all over the city in different ways. Many suburbs offer great light, warmth and outdoor living, especially when homes are well positioned and thoughtfully designed.
Myth: Only north-facing homes get good sun
Reality: North-facing living areas are often popular because they receive more consistent daylight. That said, aspect is only part of the picture. Elevation, shelter from wind and surrounding buildings can all influence how warm and bright a home feels. North-facing spaces are popular, and many Wellington homes also benefit from elevation, open outlooks and shelter. It is often the combination that creates bright, comfortable living.
Myth: Higher suburbs are always windier and colder
Reality: Elevated areas often enjoy longer daylight hours and clear outlooks. With the right positioning, homes can feel surprisingly settled and sunny.
Myth: Summer living is all about outdoor space
Reality: Outdoor areas are a bonus, and indoor light and airflow matter just as much. Homes that feel good inside tend to be enjoyed year-round.
Myth: Summer is only about lifestyle, not long-term comfort
Reality: Summer is a great time to understand how a home works. Noticing light, layout and flow now help ensure comfort across all seasons.
Make the most of it
Summer is always a good reminder of what Wellington has to offer. So, get outside. Try a new walking track. Enjoy a picnic. Catch a gig. Find a new favourite sunspot.
And if this season has you thinking about a new home, we are here to help you find somewhere that feels good on the sunny days and just as comfortable through the rest of the year.
