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296  But how changed was it when aneath a sullen sky a fierce, nor'-easter or sou'-wester disturbed the elements? The reader can realize that picture for himself. 

 In almost all parts of the world, especially in the temperate regions, the state of the weather is a matter of very considerable importance, and for certain reasons, which will possibly hereafter become apparent, it is rather remarkably so in Dunedin. Such being the case, any publication under the title of "Picturesque Dunedin" would seem to be incomplete without some reference, be it ever so slight, to the prevailing climatic influences of the locality.

Dunedin, as will be remembered, is situated in latitude 46° south (nearly), while London is in the latitude of 51½° N.; and it may therefore be expected that being more than five degrees nearer the equator than the latter city, a milder climate, favourable to out-door pursuits, and the growth of all kinds of produce, would be experienced. Nor is this expectation disappointed, for although the summer heat of Dunedin rarely rises above 80° Fah. in the shade, or 120° in the sun, the winter cold is also comparatively moderate, the thermometer seldom falling more than a degree or two below the freezing point; with the result, as given by the New Zealand Pilot for 1883, of a difference of three degrees in favour of Dunedin, on the average yearly temperature of 15 years.

The average rainfall in Dunedin is slightly less than that of London and the south of England, as given by the same authority, namely—about 33 inches per annum here to 36 inches in London; sufficient, but not too much for agricultural requirements.

The winds in Dunedin and environs are extremely regular and persistent, with only slight variations from either the north-east or south-west. In winter it is for the most part calm, with