Rarotonga Weather in January
Rarotonga in January averages 28°C (82°F) during the day and 25°C (77°F) at night. This is the wettest month of the year.
Rainfall in Rarotonga in January
Rarotonga is in the rainy season in January, with rain on around 13 days and an average of 225 mm (8.9 in). Showers during the rainy season tend to be heavy and can come down intensely. An umbrella is often not enough, so a poncho or waterproof jacket is a better choice.
Temperature in Rarotonga in January
In January, Rarotonga gets high temperatures, with highs of 28°C (82°F). Nights cool to around 25°C (77°F). This gives the month a fairly typical daily rhythm, with warmer afternoons and more comfortable nights. Nights stay warm at around 25°C (77°F), so light bedding and good ventilation are worth thinking about.
Sunshine in Rarotonga in January
The area experiences a moderate amount of sunshine, with approximately 167 hours of sunlight expected. Even though this month is part of the rainy season, you could still see the sun every now and then.
Wind Speed in Rarotonga in January
In January, average wind speeds reach 4 m/s (8 knots), leading to light to moderate breezes. Conditions vary from day to day, with both calm and windier periods.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. June, August, September and October typically offer the best weather for Rarotonga.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the Cook Islands, check out our Rarotonga's climate page.
Rarotonga Temperature in January
Min Temperature
25°C (77°F)
Max Temperature
28°C (82°F)
Chance of Rain
44%
Precipitation
225 mm (8.9 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Humidity
85%
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots)
Sunshine
167 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Rarotonga typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 28°C (82°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 24°C (75°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Rarotonga in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Rarotonga spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Rarotonga historical weather extremes in January
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Rarotonga from 2006 through 2025.
- On January 10, 2018, temperatures climbed to 33°C (91°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
- On January 4, 2008, Rarotonga saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at 24°C (75°F).
- Rarotonga registered its coldest January night on January 14, 2023, with temperatures dropping to 19°C (66°F).
- The wettest January day on record brought 131 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation to Rarotonga (January 21, 2008).
Best Places in the Cook Islands in January
Find out more about the weather in the Cook Islands and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the Cook Islands in January →
perfect weather
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tolerable
unpleasant
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What to Wear in Rarotonga in January
Warm temperatures in January make for comfortable sightseeing weather. Pack breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts, and comfortable walking shoes. A thin long sleeve for indoor spaces is handy. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.What To Do in Rarotonga in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the Cook Islands, check out our Rarotonga's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Rarotonga climate overview or explore weather in the Cook Islands.
