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.
With daytime temperatures of 21°C (70°F) and nighttime lows of 15°C (59°F), January in Whanganui brings pleasant temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 77 mm (3 in) falls on average.
If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, January, February and March typically offer the best circumstances for Whanganui.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Whanganui - and find the best time to visit.
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Whanganui typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 13°C (55°F).
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Whanganui spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Whanganui from 1976 through 2025.
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 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).
Pleasant temperatures in January 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. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Whanganui climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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.
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.
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.