Kaikoura Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Kaikoura. The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Now, let’s break down all the details for a clearer picture.

Kaikoura is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1024 mm.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm)

The wettest period in Kaikoura occurs in June, which receives around 101 mm of precipitation. During the driest month, May, Kaikoura experiences moderate rainfall, totaling approximately 71 mm. The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate.

June, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 11°C. During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 14°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Kaikoura Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in New Zealand

The map below shows the annual precipitation across New Zealand. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Kaikoura’s average annual precipitation is 1024 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Barcelona, Spain, the average annual precipitation is 644 mm, evenly distributed across the year with no extreme wet or dry seasons.

Osaka, Japan, experiences 1507 mm of rainfall annually, spread across the year with wetter summers.

Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, receives 1955 mm of annual rainfall, with a pronounced wet season from May to November, typical of its tropical monsoon climate.

How is Precipitation Measured?

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

Global Warming and Precipitation

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Kaikoura:

• Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
• Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.

For more detailed information about Kaikoura’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Kaikoura Climate page.