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Kaikoura Weather in January

January in Kaikoura brings pleasant temperatures, with highs of 20°C (68°F) and nights dropping to 13°C (55°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 81 mm (3.2 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.

Rainfall in Kaikoura in January

Rain is expected on roughly 9 days, totalling around 81 mm (3.2 in) for the month. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.

Temperature in Kaikoura in January

January is one of the better months to visit Kaikoura. Expect 20°C (68°F) during the day and 13°C (55°F) at night. The summer season takes place during January. Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. With lows of 13°C (55°F), nights are cool. If you're out after dark, an extra layer will keep you comfortable. The cooler air at night is also great for getting a good rest.

So this is a great month to visit if you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures.

Kaikoura Temperature in January

Min Temperature

13°C (55°F)

Max Temperature

20°C (68°F)

Chance of Rain

28%

Precipitation

81 mm (3.2 in)

Rainy days

9 days

Kaikoura Weather by Month

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

January

20°C (68°F)View January → February

20°C (68°F)View February → March

19°C (66°F)View March → April

16°C (61°F)View April → May

14°C (57°F)View May → June

11°C (52°F)View June → July

10°C (50°F)View July → August

11°C (52°F)View August → September

13°C (55°F)View September → This monthOctober

15°C (59°F)View October → November

17°C (63°F)View November → December

19°C (66°F)View December →

Best Time to Visit Kaikoura →

Daily Historical Temperatures

30-year average (1997-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kaikoura typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 15°C (59°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

30-year average (1997-2026)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Kaikoura in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Kaikoura spanning 30 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Kaikoura historical weather extremes in January

Based on weather observations in Kaikoura between 1997 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.

The hottest January day on record in Kaikoura reached 30°C (86°F) (January 20, 2024).
The coldest January day was on January 1, 2007, with a maximum of 11°C (52°F).
The coldest night in January in Kaikoura was on January 27, 2012, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F).

Best Places in New Zealand in January

Find out more about the weather in New Zealand and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of New Zealand in January →

Conditions Temperatures Precipitation

Temperatures Precipitation

perfect weather

pleasant

tolerable

unpleasant

poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

Marker color shows the average daytime high temperature in January: blue is cold, red is hot.

Marker color shows total monthly precipitation in January: pale blue is dry, deep blue is wet.

What to Wear in Kaikoura in January

For Kaikoura in January, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho.