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 perfect. 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.
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 Rotorua's climate page.
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
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 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
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tolerable
unpleasant
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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.
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 Rotorua's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Rotorua climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
