Wanaka Weather in January
With daytime temperatures of 18°C (64°F) and nighttime lows of 8°C (46°F), January in Wanaka brings pleasant temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 136 mm (5.4 in) falls on average.
Rainfall in Wanaka in January
Looking at the last 30 years, the data shows about 9 days with rain, averaging 136 mm (5.4 in) for the month. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in Wanaka in January
January in Wanaka brings pleasant temperatures, with highs of 18°C (64°F) and nights around 8°C (46°F). January is a notable month of the summer season. This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. With lows around 8°C (46°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep.
Sunshine in Wanaka in January
With approximately 231 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 and February typically offer the best weather for Wanaka.
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 Wanaka's climate page.
Wanaka Temperature in January
Min Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Max Temperature
18°C (64°F)
Chance of Rain
29%
Precipitation
136 mm (5.4 in)
Rainy days
9 days
Sunshine
231 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
31-year average (1996-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Wanaka typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 18°C (64°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 9°C (48°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 Wanaka in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Wanaka spanning 32 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Wanaka historical weather extremes in January
Based on weather observations in Wanaka between 1996 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.
- Wanaka recorded its highest January temperature of 32°C (90°F) on January 29, 2018.
- On January 8, 2010, Wanaka saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at 10°C (50°F).
- The coldest night in January in Wanaka was on January 28, 2001, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F).
- Peak precipitation in January occurred on January 31, 2015, when 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation was measured.
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 Wanaka in January
For Wanaka 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 Wanaka 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 Wanaka's climate page.
See the full Wanaka climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
