Pollen Count & Forecast for Christchurch

Christchurch’s spring allergy season (September-November) is dominated by Birch and Pine pollen; Silver Birch (Betula pendula) prolific in Hagley Park and residential gardens; Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata) widespread in Bottle Lake Forest. Oak (Quercus) and Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) contribute from trees along the Avon River. Summer (December-February) sees high Grass (Poaceae) pollen levels, originating from the Port Hills and Canterbury Plains.

Hot, dry Nor’wester winds carry pollen from the plains into the city; the Port Hills trap these particles within the urban basin. Autumn and winter see high Mould (Alternaria, Cladosporium) spore counts, from damp leaf litter in the Botanic Gardens and moisture along the coastline.