Tauranga Weather in December

Tauranga in December sees pleasant temperatures, with highs around 21°C (70°F) and overnight lows of 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is fairly high at around 115 mm (4.5 in) on average, so pack waterproofs just in case.

Rainfall in Tauranga in December

Records from the past 30 years suggest around 12 days of rain, with 115 mm (4.5 in) average for the month. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.

Temperature in Tauranga in December

Tauranga in December gets highs of 21°C (70°F) during the day and drops to 15°C (59°F) at night. Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. Nights drop to around 15°C (59°F), which is noticeably cooler than the daytime. A light jacket for the evening is a sensible addition, and the cool nights tend to make sleeping comfortable.

Sunshine in Tauranga in December

With approximately 231 hours of sunshine, the days are filled with clear skies. It makes it a perfect month for being outside.

Wind Speed in Tauranga in December

December has wind speeds averaging 5 m/s (10 knots). You can expect gentle to moderate winds that move small trees and make flags wave steadily on typical days. Conditions typically range from light breezes to moderate winds.

Average water temperature in December

At 17°C (63°F), the water is cool but manageable for those who don't mind a bit of a shock getting in. Most people adjust after a few minutes.

Should you favor a climate that's both dry and comfortably warm, January typically offers 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.

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
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• August

• September
• October
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• December

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

Tauranga Temperature in December

Min Temperature 15°C (59°F)  

Max Temperature 21°C (70°F)  

Water Temperature 17°C (63°F)  

Chance of Rain 39%  

Precipitation 115 mm (4.5 in)  

Rainy days 12 days  

Humidity 75%  

Windspeed 5 m/s (10 knots)  

Sunshine 231 hours  

Percentage Sunshine 54%  

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Tauranga typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 15°C (59°F).

Average temperatures in December

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

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-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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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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

Historical weather for Tauranga in December

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

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

‹ 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 ›

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

Tauranga historical weather extremes in December

Our historical data for Tauranga spans 1992 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.

• Tauranga recorded its highest December temperature of 30°C (86°F) on December 24, 2021.
• The coldest December day was on December 4, 2009, with a maximum of 15°C (59°F).
• The coldest night in December in Tauranga was on December 17, 1996, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F).

What to Wear in Tauranga 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. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. The water temperature sits at about 17°C (63°F), which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Tauranga in December

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

Cycling

9/10

Walking

9/10

Camping

6/10

Outdoor sports

9/10

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 Tauranga's climate page.

More climate data for Tauranga

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

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