Rotorua Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. These values are calculated using 30 years of data (1990–2020) to ensure accuracy. Let's now guide you through the details for a complete overview.
Rotorua is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1389 mm (55 in).
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
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 approximately 95 mm (3.7 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate.
September, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 15°C (59°F). The city receives 155 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month January you can expect a temperature of 23°C (73°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Rotorua Temperature page.
Daily Historical Precipitation
49-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in June
Explore Rotorua's Historical Precipitation: 1976-2026
Browse day-by-day precipitation records for Rotorua spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual rainfall and snowfall recorded on each day.
Annual Rainfall in New Zealand: City Comparison
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.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
low
almost none
Rotorua vs World: Rainfall Compared
Rotorua's average annual precipitation is 1389 mm (55 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
Boston, USA, experiences 1238 mm (49 in) of annual precipitation, including significant snowfall during the winter.
Beijing, China, receives 560 mm (22 in) of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.
In Tokyo, Japan, the average annual precipitation is 1528 mm (60 in), with significant summer rains due to typhoon season.
Bangkok, Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1668 mm (66 in) of annual rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during September and October.
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.
Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:
- 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.
- The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
- Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
- A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.
For more detailed information about Rotorua's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Rotorua Climate page.
