Whakatāne Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Whakatāne, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. This average is based on long-term data collected between 1990 and 2020. Let's explore the details to provide you with a complete overview.

Whakatāne has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1426 mm (56 in) of rainfall annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))

While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. June brings wetter days averaging 150 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation, spread over 12 rainy days.

In contrast, January experiences a drier climate, with about 90 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall spread across 10 rainy days.

June, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 16°C (61°F). The city receives 150 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 Whakatāne Temperature page.

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.

Annual

Annual

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Legend

heavy rainfall

high

moderate

low

almost none

Heavy annual rainfall has been defined as more than 1000 mm (39 in) precipitation. High: 600 mm (24 in) to 1000 mm (39 in). Moderate: 250 mm (9.8 in) to 600 mm (24 in). Low: less than 250 mm (9.8 in).

Whakatāne vs World: Rainfall Compared

Whakatāne's average annual precipitation is 1426 mm (56 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.

Meanwhile, Buenos Aires, Argentina, enjoys a humid subtropical climate with 1000 mm (39 in) of annual rainfall, mostly in the summer.

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.

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.

Rainy Seasons: Many parts of the world have well-defined wet seasons where precipitation is distinctly higher. These are normally accompanied by lush vegetation and temperature patterns.

Dry Seasons: In areas where the climate is either desert or Mediterranean, the amount of precipitation is drastically reduced, leading to a shortage of water and arid conditions.

Interesting weather facts

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 Whakatāne's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Whakatāne Climate page.

Current rainfall in Whakatāne

10-Day Forecast