Rotorua Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity

Climate overview of Rotorua

Rotorua is one of the North Island’s most popular vacation destinations in New Zealand. It lies in the heart of a spectacular volcanic region, featuring bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers, hot springs, steaming rocks, and hydrothermal lakes. These are believed to have healing properties due to the gases released by the volcanoes.

Rotorua has a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasons. The presence of volcanoes raises the wind chill slightly, as the air here is usually warm. The warmest months are January, February, and March, while the coldest are July and August. The wind is generally less noticeable here than in much of New Zealand.

Rotorua Weather by Month

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

January

23°C (73°F)View January → February

24°C (75°F)View February → March

21°C (70°F)View March → April

19°C (66°F)View April → May

16°C (61°F)View May → June

13°C (55°F)View June → July

13°C (55°F)View July → August

13°C (55°F)View August → September

15°C (59°F)View September → This monthOctober

17°C (63°F)View October → November

19°C (66°F)View November → December

21°C (70°F)View December →

Monthly Temperature in Rotorua

The weather in Rotorua changes moderately throughout the year, offering enough variation to appreciate each season. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in February to a moderate 13°C (55°F) in July.

Nighttime temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in February to 5°C (41°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

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Rainfall in Rotorua

Rotorua experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1389 mm (55 in) of precipitation annually. The wettest period in Rotorua occurs in September, which receives around 132 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation. During the driest month, January, Rotorua experiences moderate rainfall, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate. For more details, please visit our Rotorua Precipitation page.

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

The average number of days each month with precipitation

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Sunshine Hours in Rotorua

In Rotorua, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 8.0 hours in January. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. June sees a soft sun for only 4.0 hours per average day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

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Humidity in Rotorua by Month

The city experiences its highest humidity in May, reaching 87%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 77%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.

Relative humidity over the year

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Best Time to Visit Rotorua

Conditions in Rotorua are generally most comfortable in January and March. They are typically least comfortable in June, July and August.

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

Jan excellent Feb very good Mar excellent Apr good May mixed Jun wet Jul wet Aug wet Sep mixed Oct mixed Nov good Dec very good

Best overall: January and March
Warmest weather: January and February
Most sunshine: January
Fewest rainy days: January, February, March and April
Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and mild winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Rotorua

What is the best time to visit Rotorua?

January and March typically offer the most optimal weather in Rotorua. In contrast, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Rotorua has warm summers and mild winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Rotorua?

Daytime highs range from 13°C (55°F) in July to 24°C (75°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 14°C (57°F).

How much rain does Rotorua get?

Annual rainfall is around 1389 mm (55 in). September is the wettest month with 132 mm (5.2 in), while January is the driest with 95 mm (3.7 in).

How sunny is Rotorua?

Rotorua receives around 2,136 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 240 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 121 hours. Overall, Rotorua enjoys abundant sunshine.