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.
Dunedin in January averages 19°C (66°F) during the day and 10°C (50°F) at night. Keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is expected this month.
Should you favor a climate that's both dry and comfortably warm, February and March typically offer the most agreeable circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Dunedin - and find the best time to visit.
50-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Dunedin typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 19°C (66°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 11°C (52°F).
Browse day-by-day weather records for Dunedin spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Based on 21 years of weather observations in Dunedin between 2004 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
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).
For Dunedin in January, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. Expect water temperatures of around 13°C (55°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month
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 Dunedin 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.