Queenstown Weather in January
January in Queenstown brings moderate temperatures, with highs of 17°C (63°F) and nights dropping to 7°C (45°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 143 mm (5.6 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.
Rainfall in Queenstown in January
Typically, you can expect about 11 days of rain this month, with 143 mm (5.6 in) on average. When it rains this month, it tends to come down fairly heavily. Showers can be substantial even if they don't last all day.
Temperature in Queenstown in January
January in Queenstown brings typical temperatures with highs around 17°C (63°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). January marks the summer season. Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. At 7°C (45°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions.
Sunshine in Queenstown in January
The month enjoys around 230 hours of sunshine, creating mostly sunny days with good weather conditions.If you're a fan of comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, January is a great time to visit.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Queenstown's climate page.
Queenstown Temperature in January
Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
17°C (63°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
143 mm (5.6 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
70%
Sunshine
230 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
31-year average (1996-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Queenstown typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 17°C (63°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 11°C (52°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
31-year average (1996-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Queenstown in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Queenstown spanning 32 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Queenstown historical weather extremes in January
Our historical data for Queenstown spans 1996 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- On January 27, 2006, temperatures climbed to 32°C (90°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
- Queenstown experienced its chilliest January day on January 8, 2010, reaching only 9°C (48°F).
- Queenstown registered its coldest January night on January 3, 2013, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F).
- The wettest day in January Queenstown was on January 31, 2015 with 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation.
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 →
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What to Wear in Queenstown in January
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. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.What To Do in Queenstown in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Queenstown's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Queenstown climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
