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.
New Plymouth Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit New Plymouth.
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Climate overview of New Plymouth
The climate in New Plymouth, Taranaki, New Zealand, sees a moderate range of temperatures across the year, from 21°C (70°F) in February down to 14°C (57°F) in July.
Rainfall is high, totalling around 1838 mm (72 in) per year. June is the wettest month and March the driest. The city also experiences a distinct rainy season from May to September. January is the sunniest month, averaging 8.4 hours of sunshine per day.
New Plymouth Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in New Plymouth - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in New Plymouth
The climate in New Plymouth experiences moderate temperature changes, with mild shifts between seasons. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 21°C (70°F) in February, 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 February to around 9°C (48°F) during July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in New Plymouth
New Plymouth experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1838 mm (72 in) of precipitation annually. While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. June brings wetter days averaging 185 mm (7.3 in) of precipitation, spread over 15 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month March experiences a drier climate, with about 108 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall spread across 12 rainy days. For more details, please visit our New Plymouth 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 New Plymouth
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in New Plymouth. While January receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.4 hours, June marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 3.9 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 New Plymouth
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 13°C (55°F) in August to 18°C (64°F) in March.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in New Plymouth by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 86%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 80%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in New Plymouth
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) in March and May to 5 m/s (10 knots) in January, February, April, June, July, August, September, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit New Plymouth
The most comfortable overall weather for exploring New Plymouth is usually found in January, February and March. Conditions are generally least comfortable in June and July.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
very good
Feb
very good
Mar
very good
Apr
good
May
mixed
Jun
wet
Jul
wet
Aug
mixed
Sep
mixed
Oct
mixed
Nov
mixed
Dec
good
- Best overall: January, February and March
- Warmest weather: January, February and March
- Most sunshine: January
- Fewest rainy days: February
- Warmest water temperature: January, February, March and April, although the water may still feel cool.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from May to September
Frequently asked questions about the climate in New Plymouth
What is the best time to visit New Plymouth?
January, February and March typically offer the most optimal weather in New Plymouth. In contrast, June and July tend to have less optimal conditions. New Plymouth has a distinct rainy season from May to September.
What temperatures can I expect in New Plymouth?
Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in July to 21°C (70°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 9°C (48°F) to 16°C (61°F).
How much rain does New Plymouth get?
Annual rainfall is around 1838 mm (72 in). June is the wettest month with 185 mm (7.3 in), while March is the driest with 108 mm (4.3 in).
How sunny is New Plymouth?
New Plymouth receives around 2,211 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 252 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 117 hours. Overall, New Plymouth enjoys abundant sunshine.
New Plymouth 3-Day Forecast
New Plymouth on the map
New Plymouth is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in October
Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Paihia18°C (64°F) Auckland
18°C (64°F) Rotorua
17°C (63°F) Christchurch17°C (63°F) Nelson
16°C (61°F) Taupo16°C (61°F) Wellington15°C (59°F) Queenstown
9°C (48°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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