Gisborne Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Gisborne.
Climate overview of Gisborne
Gisborne, in the Gisborne region of New Zealand, experiences moderate temperature changes over the year, with warm summers and mild winters. Rainfall is fairly balanced throughout the seasons, without extreme wet or dry periods. The climate supports a strong focus on vineyards, surfing, and outdoor markets, with many locals and tourists spending time outside year-round. Now, let’s break down all the climate details for a clearer picture.
Gisborne Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Gisborne - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Gisborne
The weather in Gisborne changes moderately throughout the year, offering enough variation to appreciate each season. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in January, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 14°C (57°F) during cooler months like July.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in January to around 7°C (45°F) during July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Gisborne
Generally, Gisborne has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 963 mm (38 in) of rainfall annually. Year-round, Gisborne has a balanced climate with minimal variation in precipitation. The difference between the wettest month, July, with 102 mm (4 in), and the driest month, November, with 65 mm (2.6 in), is minimal. For more details, please visit our Gisborne Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Gisborne
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Gisborne. While January receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.3 hours, July marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Gisborne
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 13°C (55°F) in July to 18°C (64°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Gisborne by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Gisborne.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 81%. In November, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 72%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Gisborne
The mean wind speed varies between 3 m/s (6 knots) and 4 m/s (8 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in January, February, March, April, May, June, July and December and highest during August, September, October and November. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Gisborne
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, February, March, April, November and December
- Warmest weather: January and February
- Most sunshine: January
- Fewest rainy days: January, February, November and December
- Warmest water temperature: January, February, March, April and December, although the water may still feel cool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Gisborne
What is the best time to visit Gisborne?
January, February, March, April, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Gisborne. In contrast, July tends to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Gisborne?
Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in July to 24°C (75°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 16°C (61°F).
How much rain does Gisborne get?
Annual rainfall is around 963 mm (38 in). July is the wettest month with 102 mm (4 in), while November is the driest with 65 mm (2.6 in).
How sunny is Gisborne?
Gisborne receives around 2,217 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 248 hours, while July is the cloudiest with just 124 hours. Overall, Gisborne enjoys abundant sunshine.
Gisborne 3-Day Forecast
Gisborne on the map
Gisborne is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Paihia
16°C (61°F) Auckland
16°C (61°F) Rotorua13°C (55°F) Christchurch
13°C (55°F) Wellington13°C (55°F) Nelson12°C (54°F) Taupo12°C (54°F) Queenstown4°C (39°F) 
Bucket list
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.