The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
In Nelson, January brings pleasant daytime temperatures around 21°C (70°F), with nights cooling to 13°C (55°F). Expect quite a bit of rainfall this month.
If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, February and March typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Nelson - and find the best time to visit.
50-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Nelson typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 14°C (57°F).
50-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Nelson spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Our historical data for Nelson spans 1993 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
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 →
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).
Comfortable temperatures call for an easy wardrobe in January. Pack summer basics like t-shirts and shorts, but include a light jacket for cooler moments. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Nelson climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
White-water sledge and raft in Rotorua
We recommend to white-water sledge and raft in Rotorua in summer (January, February) when the Glacier melt fills the rivers. This is the best time.
New Zealand in February: North Island or South Island?
Compare New Zealand weather in February for Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Christchurch and Queenstown to see which island has the best conditions.
An alternative way to discover Sydney
We have made an overview of the sights in Sydney that you must see if you want to visit Sydney in an alternative way.