Russell Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall Water temp

Climate overview of Russell

Russell, in New Zealand's Bay of Islands, varies between warm and mild temperatures as the seasons change. The town experiences heavy rainfall throughout the year, keeping the surrounding areas green and tropical. Once known as the "Hell Hole of the Pacific," Russell is now a peaceful historic village where visitors come to learn about New Zealand's early European settlement and for waterfront dining. Let's explore the climate details to provide you with a complete overview on when to visit.

Russell Weather by Month

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

January

23°C (73°F)View January → February

24°C (75°F)View February → March

23°C (73°F)View March → April

21°C (70°F)View April → May

19°C (66°F)View May → June

17°C (63°F)View June → July

16°C (61°F)View July → August

16°C (61°F)View August → September

17°C (63°F)View September → This monthOctober

18°C (64°F)View October → November

20°C (68°F)View November → December

22°C (72°F)View December →

Monthly Temperature in Russell

In Russell, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in February. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a moderate 16°C (61°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) in February to 10°C (50°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

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Rainfall in Russell

Russell has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1108 mm (44 in) of rainfall annually. Russell experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 131 mm (5.2 in) in July, the wettest month, and 70 mm (2.8 in) in November, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Russell 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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Water Temperature in Russell

The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 16°C (61°F) in July to 21°C (70°F) in January.

Water temperature over the year

Data from: Paihia, New Zealand (2 KM, 1 Miles).

More Water Temperature details →

Best Time to Visit Russell

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Russell in January, February, March, April, November and December. Conditions are usually least favourable 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 excellent Mar excellent Apr excellent May very good Jun mixed Jul mixed Aug mixed Sep good Oct very good Nov excellent Dec excellent

Best overall: January, February, March, April, November and December
Warmest weather: January, February and March
Fewest rainy days: January, February, November and December
Best for swimming: January, February, March and April.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Russell

What is the best time to visit Russell?

January, February, March, April, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Russell. In contrast, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Russell?

Daytime highs range from 16°C (61°F) in July to 24°C (75°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F).