New Zealand s mountain ranges have a large influence on localised effects of the weather. Areas east of the main divide are generally drier in the usual prevailing conditions. As a general rule, air temperature drops by between 6.5 degrees and 10 degrees Celsius per 1000m increase in altitude. Stronger winds at the higher altitude can increase the cooling effect of the wind. Mountain forecasts are broadcast daily following the 1 pm news.
Details are in local phone books and newspapers.