Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

What type of climate is predominant in New Zealand's South Island?

1. Continental climate

2. Warm tropical climate

3. Cool maritime climate

4. Desert climate

The correct answer is: Cool maritime climate

The correct choice identifies New Zealand's South Island as having a cool maritime climate, which is characterized by moderate temperatures influenced by the surrounding oceans. This climate typically features mild summers and cool winters, with significant rainfall distributed throughout the year, particularly in the western regions of the South Island. The proximity to the ocean helps to moderate temperature extremes, resulting in a more stable climate compared to regions that experience a continental climate. In contrast, a continental climate would be characterized by greater temperature extremes between summer and winter, which is not typical for the South Island. A warm tropical climate would generally be found closer to the equator and is unsuitable for the geographic and climatic conditions of New Zealand. A desert climate would imply very low precipitation and high temperatures, which also does not describe the environment of the South Island.