Well, it’s finally settled (not really, this is a never ending debate!) – but 82% of those who voted in our latest online poll say “spring is definitely here” while 18% say No, it’s still winter.

The meteorological start date for spring is September 1st. The astronomical start date for spring isn’t until next Friday, the equinox, September 23rd.

To be honest with you, we actually feel that the astronomical date is the best global rule for the seasons – but in a nation like New Zealand it is very clear the true dates of the seasons have little connection with the many people who work out and about in Mother Nature every day of the year and is why most of us seem to prefer the earlier dates – at least around winter and spring.

In fact we’ve long suggested that New Zealand’s climate seems to favour more of a two month winter, a two month summer, and eight months of spring/autumn conditions.

One of the main reasons we think New Zealanders declare an end to winter on August 31st is because there are many signs of spring already moving in by August.

Auckland northwards even has evidence of flowers still in bloom from last summer – from plants that typically die in winter. Yet another indicator that no matter what date we personally prefer, Mother Nature (in this country especially) does her own thing.

Thanks for voting! Next poll on Sunday.

– WeatherWatch.co.nz