Hokitika
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Hokitika Weather in January

January in Hokitika typically sees daytime highs of 19°C (66°F) and nighttime lows of 13°C (55°F). January falls within the rainy season, so heavy rainfall is to be expected.

Rainfall in Hokitika in January

As part of the rainy season, Hokitika sees around 16 days of rain in January, with an average of 317 mm (12 in). Rain during the rainy season here tends to be intense rather than just persistent drizzle. Expect significant downpours.

Temperature in Hokitika in January

Daytime highs in Hokitika in January reach 19°C (66°F), with nights around 13°C (55°F). This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. Nights cool down to 13°C (55°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Hokitika in January

There are approximately 211 hours of sunshine this month, despite being the rainy season. Rain often arrives in the late afternoon or evening, keeping mornings and early afternoons sunny. Even during the wet season, it could still be a nice time to visit.

Wind Speed in Hokitika in January

Average wind speeds reach 3 m/s (6 knots) in January, creating light breezes that feel pleasant throughout the day. Some days are calmer, while others bring slightly more active breezes.

Average water temperature in January

The water is 15°C (59°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.

If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Hokitika. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

Hokitika Temperature in January

Min Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Max Temperature
19°C (66°F)
Water Temperature
15°C (59°F)
Chance of Rain
53%
Precipitation
317 mm (12 in)
Rainy days
16 days
Humidity
83%
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots)
Sunshine
211 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Hokitika Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Hokitika - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

49-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Hokitika typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 19°C (66°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 12°C (54°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

49-year average (1976-2026)

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

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Hokitika in January

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.

Hokitika historical weather extremes in January

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Hokitika from 1995 through 2025.

  • The hottest January day on record in Hokitika reached 28°C (82°F) (January 11, 2023).
  • On January 20, 2021, Hokitika saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at 13°C (55°F).
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to 3°C (37°F) on January 10, 1998, marking the coldest January night on record.

Best Places in New Zealand in January

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
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

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).

What to Wear in Hokitika in January

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. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! Expect water temperatures of around 15°C (59°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Hokitika in January

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

  • Swimming
    7/10
  • Camping
    6/10

Hokitika 3-Day Forecast

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.