Punakaiki Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Punakaiki.

Climate overview of Punakaiki

Punakaiki, West Coast, New Zealand, has a stable climate with little temperature variation across the year. Average daytime temperatures hover around 15°C (59°F), peaking in February at 19°C (66°F) and dipping in July to 12°C (54°F).

With around 2899 mm (114 in) of annual rainfall, Punakaiki has a notably wet climate. The wettest month is October. Sunshine peaks in January, when the city sees around 7.0 hours of sunshine per day.

Punakaiki Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Punakaiki

With minimal seasonal shifts, Punakaiki experiences a constant climate year-round. Average daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in February. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 12°C (54°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 14°C (57°F) in February to 7°C (45°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Punakaiki

Punakaiki has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 2899 mm (114 in) of rainfall per year. Despite minor fluctuations, Punakaiki enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In October, you can expect around 291 mm (11 in) of precipitation, while in February, Punakaiki receives about 177 mm (7 in). For more details, please visit our Punakaiki Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Punakaiki

Punakaiki can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of January under a blue sky, with approximately 7.0 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in June, with only 3.6 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Hokitika, New Zealand (73 KM, 45 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Hokitika, New Zealand (73 KM, 45 Miles).

Humidity in Punakaiki by Month

Best Time to Visit Punakaiki

The most favourable weather available in Punakaiki usually occurs in February. Conditions are generally most challenging in January, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: February
  • Warmest weather: January, February and March
  • Most sunshine: January
  • Fewest rainy days: January, February and March

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Punakaiki

What is the best time to visit Punakaiki?

February typically offers the most optimal weather in Punakaiki. In contrast, January, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Punakaiki?

Daytime highs range from 12°C (54°F) in July to 19°C (66°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Punakaiki get?

Annual rainfall is around 2899 mm (114 in). October is the wettest month with 291 mm (11 in), while February is the driest with 177 mm (7 in).

How sunny is Punakaiki?

Punakaiki receives around 1,903 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 211 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 107 hours.

Punakaiki 3-Day Forecast

Punakaiki 3-Day Forecast

Punakaiki on the map

Punakaiki is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

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