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.
Taupo Weather in December
With daytime temperatures of 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows of 11°C (52°F), December in Taupo brings pleasant temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 122 mm (4.8 in) falls on average.
Rainfall in Taupo in December
Looking at the last 30 years, the data shows about 13 days with rain, averaging 122 mm (4.8 in) for the month. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.
Temperature in Taupo in December
If you're visiting Taupo in December, expect highs of 20°C (68°F) and overnight lows around 11°C (52°F). Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. Nights drop to around 11°C (52°F), which is noticeably cooler than the daytime. A light jacket for the evening is a sensible addition, and the cool nights tend to make sleeping comfortable.
Sunshine in Taupo in December
With approximately 206 hours of sunshine, the days are filled with clear skies. It makes it a perfect month for being outside.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. January, February and March typically offer the best weather for Taupo.
Taupo Temperature in December
Min Temperature
11°C (52°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Chance of Rain
43%
Precipitation
122 mm (4.8 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Sunshine
206 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Taupo Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Taupo - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
30-year average (1996-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Taupo typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 12°C (54°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
30-year average (1996-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather records for Taupo in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Taupo spanning 31 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Taupo historical weather extremes in December
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Taupo from 2001 through 2025.
- Taupo recorded its highest December temperature of 28°C (82°F) on December 29, 2024.
- The lowest daytime temperature in December was 10°C (50°F), recorded on December 5, 2004.
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to 1°C (34°F) on December 10, 2006, marking the coldest December night on record.
- Peak precipitation in December occurred on December 31, 2011, when 46 mm (1.8 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 Taupo in December
Pleasant temperatures in December mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.
What To Do in Taupo in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Cycling9/10 -
Walking9/10 -
Camping6/10 -
Outdoor sports9/10
Taupo 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Taupo
See the full Taupo 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.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
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