The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
January in Christchurch typically sees daytime highs of 22°C (72°F) and nighttime lows of 13°C (55°F). Expect some rainfall during the month. It falls within the summer season.
If you're a fan of comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, January is a great time to visit.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Christchurch - and find the best time to visit.
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Christchurch typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 22°C (72°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 12°C (54°F).
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Christchurch spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Christchurch from 1995 through 2025.
Find out more about the weather in New Zealand and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of New Zealand in January →
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
Pleasant temperatures in January mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. Expect water temperatures of around 16°C (61°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full Christchurch climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
White-water sledge and raft in Rotorua
We recommend to white-water sledge and raft in Rotorua in summer (January, February) when the Glacier melt fills the rivers. This is the best time.
New Zealand in February: North Island or South Island?
Compare New Zealand weather in February for Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Christchurch and Queenstown to see which island has the best conditions.
An alternative way to discover Sydney
We have made an overview of the sights in Sydney that you must see if you want to visit Sydney in an alternative way.