Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
IFRWellington International Airport is currently reporting instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions with broken clouds at 4,200 feet and 3.2 km visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the south (190°) at 21 knots. Runway 16/34 is favored with a 18-knot headwind and 11-knot crosswind component. Student pilots and low-time aviators should exercise caution.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is reduced to 3.2 km. IFR conditions prevail and an instrument clearance is required for operations in controlled airspace. The ceiling is 4200 feet AGL (broken), well above standard VFR minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 10°C (50°F) with a dewpoint of 8°C. The temperature-dewpoint spread is very narrow, indicating saturated or near-saturated air. Fog formation or low cloud development is likely.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 27 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Expected weather includes: Light Showers Rain, Showers Rain, Heavy Showers RAGS. Winds are forecast to reach up to 25 knots during the period. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 10 to 25 knots. Temporary MVFR conditions are forecast with Showers Rain between 09:00Z and 18:00Z. There is a 30% probability of IFR conditions with Heavy Showers RAGS between 10:00Z and 14:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are required. Verify that destination and alternate approach minimums are above current and forecast conditions. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread creates risk of fog formation, particularly during evening and early morning hours.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
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Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 16/34
Active: 16
|
6,352 ft | 148 ft | ASP | 183° |
↑ 18.2 kt
•
↔ 10.5 kt
30° angle
|
Weather Statistics - NZWN
9,955 observations | Sep 2025 - Apr 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Wellington International Airport typically experiences VFR conditions 64.9% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 6% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the N averaging 14.6 knots, with gusts recorded up to 51 knots. Temperatures typically range between 5°C and 25°C with an average of 16°C. The best months for VFR flying are September, January, December.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 9,955 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Apr 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Wellington International Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Wellington International Airport
Overview
Wellington International Airport serves as the primary airport for New Zealand's capital city, located on the southern tip of the North Island. The airport supports commercial passenger operations, general aviation, and serves as a critical transportation hub for the Wellington region. Its single runway (16/34) extends 6,352 feet and is constructed of asphalt, accommodating a range of aircraft types.
Flying Conditions
Wellington is known for challenging wind conditions, which are particularly notable given the airport's low elevation of 41 feet mean sea level. The airport's location between mountain ranges and coastal terrain can create complex wind patterns and potential turbulence during approach and departure. Pilots should anticipate potential wind shear and crosswind conditions that may require heightened situational awareness.
Notable Features
The airport's geographic position at coordinates -41.327202, 174.804993 places it in a topographically complex environment surrounded by significant terrain. Its proximity to urban areas and mountainous landscape means pilots must be prepared for potential wind gradient effects and terrain-induced turbulence. The single runway's orientation (16/34) provides some flexibility in handling varying wind directions.
Approach Considerations
Approach planning should carefully consider the airport's wind characteristics and surrounding terrain. The runway's length of 6,352 feet provides adequate space for most commercial and general aviation aircraft, but precise navigation is crucial given the challenging local environment. Pilots should maintain heightened awareness of potential wind shifts and be prepared for dynamic approach conditions.
Data Sources & Accuracy: Airport information sourced from OurAirports.com, a collaborative database of worldwide airport data. Weather data from official aviation weather services including NOAA Aviation Weather Center and international METAR/TAF providers. Information is updated regularly but pilots should always verify current conditions and NOTAMs through official channels before flight operations.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at NZWN
Official Data Sources
Disclaimer: Data is provided for informational purposes only. Pilots must verify all information through official sources before flight operations. Weather conditions change rapidly; always obtain a current briefing from approved weather services.