Hokitika Weather in December

December in Hokitika typically sees daytime highs of 18°C (64°F) and nighttime lows of 12°C (54°F). As the wettest month of the year, expect more rainfall than other months.

Rainfall in Hokitika in December

As part of the rainy season, Hokitika sees around 19 days of rain in December, with an average of 345 mm (14 in). Rainy season showers here are typically intense, often clearing quickly but coming down hard while they last.

Temperature in Hokitika in December

In December, Hokitika sees moderate temperatures, with highs of 18°C (64°F). Nights drop to around 12°C (54°F). A light jacket or extra layer can be useful, especially outside the warmest hours of the day. With overnight lows of 12°C (54°F), evenings can feel noticeably cooler than the daytime. An extra layer is a good idea, though the cool air makes for a good night's sleep.

Sunshine in Hokitika in December

Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 197 hours of sun. Showers typically arrive in the late afternoon or evening, keeping mornings and early afternoons sunny. Even during the wet season, there's plenty of sunshine for sightseeing.

Wind Speed in Hokitika in December

December has wind speeds averaging 3 m/s (6 knots). You can expect comfortable light winds that steadily move flags and feel mild throughout the day. Since this is an average, daily conditions vary from gentle winds to more active breezes.

Average water temperature in December

The water is 14°C (57°F) this month — cool enough to feel refreshing on a warm day, but cold enough that most people won't stay in for long without a wetsuit.

December in Hokitika has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
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• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Hokitika's climate page.

Hokitika Temperature in December

Min Temperature 12°C (54°F)  

Max Temperature 18°C (64°F)  

Water Temperature 14°C (57°F)  

Chance of Rain 62%  

Precipitation 345 mm (14 in)  

Rainy days 19 days  

Humidity 82%  

Windspeed 3 m/s (6 knots)  

Sunshine 197 hours  

Percentage Sunshine  

Daily Historical Temperatures

49-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Hokitika typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 18°C (64°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 11°C (52°F).

Average temperatures in December

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Daily Historical Precipitation

49-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in December

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‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Historical weather for Hokitika in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Hokitika spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

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‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Hokitika historical weather extremes in December

Based on 24 years of weather observations (2001-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Hokitika.

• The warmest day in December was on December 31, 2011, with a maximum of 26°C (79°F).
• On December 4, 2004, Hokitika saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at 12°C (54°F).
• The lowest overnight temperature recorded in December was 4°C (39°F) (December 22, 2006).

What to Wear in Hokitika in December

Comfortable temperatures call for an easy wardrobe in December. Pack summer basics like t-shirts and shorts, but include a light jacket for cooler moments. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. It's going to pour! Pack a good poncho and prepare for very wet conditions. The water temperature sits at about 14°C (57°F), which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Hokitika in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming

6/10

Cycling

5/10

Walking

5/10

Camping

6/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Hokitika's climate page.

More climate data for Hokitika

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

See the full Hokitika climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.