Rotorua
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Rotorua Weather in January

Rotorua in January sees high daytime temperatures of 23°C (73°F) and nighttime lows of 13°C (55°F). With just 95 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall on average, it's the driest month of the year.

Rainfall in Rotorua in January

With the least rainfall of the year, this month offers good conditions for outdoor exploration. Take advantage of the dry weather to plan your activities. Historically, January sees about 10 days of rain, with a monthly average of 95 mm (3.7 in). Individual showers can be quite heavy this month. A proper umbrella or rain jacket is worth having.

Temperature in Rotorua in January

The temperature in Rotorua in January is excellent. Daytime highs reach 23°C (73°F), with nights dropping to 13°C (55°F). The summer season is characteristic of January. The days can feel warmer than the evenings, so packing for both parts of the day is a good idea. 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.

Sunshine in Rotorua in January

The month enjoys around 240 hours of sunshine, creating mostly sunny days with good weather conditions.

If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, January is one of the best months to visit Rotorua.

Rotorua Temperature in January

Min Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Max Temperature
23°C (73°F)
Chance of Rain
32%
Precipitation
95 mm (3.7 in)
Rainy days
10 days
Humidity
77%
Sunshine
240 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

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Rotorua typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 23°C (73°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 16°C (61°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

51-year average (1976-2026)

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

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Rotorua in January

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 January

Based on weather observations in Rotorua between 1991 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.

  • The hottest January day on record in Rotorua reached 30°C (86°F) (January 31, 2020).
  • On January 5, 1997, Rotorua saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at 16°C (61°F).
  • Rotorua registered its coldest January night on January 6, 1997, with temperatures dropping to 5°C (41°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 →

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 January

For Rotorua 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. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Rotorua in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    9/10
  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Barbeque
    8/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Rotorua 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Rotorua

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.