Wellington and the lower North Island are temperate and famously windy. Frosts are light near the coast but real inland. Wind is the defining factor: it dries soil, knocks over tall crops, and slows establishment, so shelter matters more here than almost anywhere. Spring through autumn is productive; choose sturdy, wind-tolerant crops and stake early.
Wellington's temperate climate grows the full range of vegetables, herbs and fruit, with light coastal frosts. The defining factor is wind, so shelter and sturdy, wind-tolerant crops matter more here than almost anywhere in New Zealand.
How do I deal with Wellington's wind?
Provide shelter (hedges, fences, cloches), stake tall crops like tomatoes and beans early, and choose compact or wind-tolerant varieties. Wind dries soil and slows establishment, so mulch well and water consistently.
When can I plant tomatoes in Wellington?
From Labour Weekend, once frost risk has passed and the soil has warmed. Start seed indoors in early spring, plant into a sheltered, sunny spot, and stake firmly against the wind.
