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.
Rotorua Weather in December
December in Rotorua typically sees daytime highs of 21°C (70°F) and nighttime lows of 12°C (54°F). Rainfall is also possible this month, so it's worth packing an umbrella.
Rainfall in Rotorua in December
Historically, December sees about 13 days of rain, with a monthly average of 127 mm (5 in). The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in Rotorua in December
December in Rotorua brings pleasant temperatures, with highs of 21°C (70°F) and nights around 12°C (54°F). Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. With lows of 12°C (54°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.
Sunshine in Rotorua in December
Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 217 hours of sunshine. This makes it a pleasant time to visit Rotorua.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. January and March typically offer the best weather for Rotorua.
Rotorua Temperature in December
Min Temperature
12°C (54°F)
Max Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Chance of Rain
43%
Precipitation
127 mm (5 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Humidity
78%
Sunshine
217 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Rotorua Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Rotorua - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Rotorua typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 14°C (57°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather records for Rotorua in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Rotorua spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Rotorua historical weather extremes in December
Based on 33 years of weather observations in Rotorua between 1992 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- On December 24, 2021, temperatures climbed to 29°C (84°F), marking the warmest December day on record.
- The lowest daytime temperature in December was 14°C (57°F), recorded on December 29, 2025.
- The coldest night in December in Rotorua was on December 3, 2014, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F).
- Peak precipitation in December occurred on December 24, 2018, when 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation was measured.
Best Places in New Zealand in December
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 December →
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).
What to Wear in Rotorua in December
For Rotorua in December, 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. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.
What To Do in Rotorua in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
-
Cycling9/10 -
Walking9/10 -
Camping6/10 -
Outdoor sports9/10
Rotorua 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Rotorua
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Rotorua climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Popular in December
Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
White-water sledge and raft in Rotorua
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.
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.