Last updated: January 18, 2025
Northland, New Zealand, exhibits a temperate maritime climate classified as Cfb under the Köppen-Geiger system. Characterized by mild summers and cool winters, this region experiences a minimum temperature of -1°C (30°F) in July, contrasting with a peak summer maximum of 31°C (89°F) in February. The annual average temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F), making Northland a climate of moderate variability, where the lush landscapes thrive under the balancing effects of coastal winds and seasonal changes.
In Northland, New Zealand, temperature patterns reveal a clear seasonal shift, characterized by warm summers and cool winters. January and February serve as the warmest months, with average temperatures peaking at around 20-21°C (68-69°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F). As the transition to autumn occurs in March and April, temperatures gradually decline, with March averaging 19°C (67°F) and April dropping to 17°C (63°F). Winter months from June to August bring cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures occasionally falling below freezing, particularly in July, where the minimum dips to -1°C (30°F). The subsequent months of spring, particularly October through December, see a return to milder temperatures, with averages again ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 19°C (66°F), illustrating the region's dynamic climate and distinct seasonal influences.
In the Northland region of New Zealand, the towns of Russell, Waitangi, and Paihia experience similar temperature ranges, with minimums reaching as low as 3°C (38°F) in July and maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F) in February. For detailed monthly temperature information, you can explore the links: monthly temperatures in Russell, monthly temperatures in Waitangi, and monthly temperatures in Paihia.
Northland, New Zealand experiences a diverse precipitation pattern throughout the year, with distinct variations between the summer and winter months. January and February are relatively drier, receiving 50 mm (2.0 in) and 88 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall respectively, accompanied by fewer rainy days, averaging around 5 to 8 days. However, as the region transitions into autumn and winter, March through July witness a notable increase in rainfall, with June peaking at 123 mm (4.9 in) over approximately 11 days of precipitation. This trend indicates that winter months generally harbor more substantial rain, enhancing the lush vegetation characteristic of Northland's landscape.
The onset of late winter and early spring, specifically from August to October, brings consistent precipitation levels, with rainfall ranging from 97 mm (3.8 in) to 104 mm (4.1 in) across these months. The number of rainy days also increases, with August seeing approximately 15 days of rain, contributing to the region's humid subtropical climate. By November and December, rainfall begins to taper off, falling to 72 mm (2.8 in) and 61 mm (2.4 in) respectively, reflecting a gradual return to drier conditions as the region enters its warmer summer season. Such patterns underscore Northland's dynamic climate, where precipitation plays a crucial role in shaping its unique ecosystem.
In Northland, New Zealand, sunshine duration demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, correlating closely with the warmer months. December marks the peak of sunshine, with an impressive 334 hours of sunlight, providing a bright backdrop for summer activities. The months leading up to December, namely November and October, also showcase significant sunshine, with 300 hours and 280 hours respectively, highlighting a gradual increase in daylight hours as the region transitions from spring to summer. January and February maintain robust sunshine levels, with 283 and 279 hours, reinforcing the area’s reputation as a sunlit destination during the summer.
Conversely, as the year progresses into the cooler months, sunshine hours decline steadily. June is the gloomiest month, with only 189 hours of sunlight, reflecting the shorter days of winter. This low point is preceded by May and April, which also feature reduced sunshine, with 217 and 238 hours respectively. In late winter, July sees a slight rebound to 218 hours, foreshadowing the approach of spring. As the seasons shift back to warmer weather, sunshine hours increase consistently, demonstrating Northland's vibrant climatic rhythm as it thrives under the sun’s embrace throughout the summer months.
The UV Index in Northland, New Zealand varies significantly throughout the year, peaking during the summer months when the sun is most intense. January and February both record an extreme UV Index of 14, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. March follows closely with an equally high UV Index of 11, demonstrating that late summer still poses considerable risks for sun exposure. As the region transitions into autumn, April sees a drop to a very high UV Index of 8, with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes, reflecting a continued need for sun protection.
As winter approaches, UV levels moderate, with May, June, and July reporting UV Index values of 5 to 4, categorized as moderate, allowing for 30 minutes of uninterrupted sun exposure without risk of harm. The trend shifts again in spring as the UV Index begins to rise, peaking at 10 in October and reaching 12 in November, indicating very high levels of UV radiation. December returns to an extreme UV Index of 14, necessitating vigilance against sunburn once more. This pattern suggests that while UV radiation decreases in winter, Northlanders must remain aware of the risks associated with the sun, particularly during the summer months when they are at their highest.
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In Northland, New Zealand, daylight duration exhibits a distinct seasonal rhythm that reflects the changing angles of the sun throughout the year. January and December stand out as the months with the longest daylight, each providing approximately 14 hours of sunshine, perfect for summer activities and outdoor explorations. As summer fades into autumn, February to March witnesses a gradual decline in daylight hours, dropping from 13 hours in February to 12 hours in March, signaling the transition towards shorter days. The trend continues through April and May, where daylight reduces further to 11 and 10 hours, respectively, indicating the onset of winter.
As winter settles in, June and July experience the shortest daylight durations, each offering only 9 hours of sunlight, which can lead to a more subdued outdoor experience. However, as spring approaches in August, daylight begins to extend again, rising to 10 hours, and continues to increase through September and October, reaching 11 and 12 hours respectively. By November, daylight hours rebound to 13 hours, setting the stage for another vibrant summer. This cyclical pattern not only defines the climate of Northland but also profoundly influences the lifestyle and activities of its residents throughout the year.
Ahipara, New Zealand, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Summer months (December to February) are warm, with average highs reaching up to 27°C (81°F), while winters (June to August) are cooler, averaging around 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is notably higher in winter, peaking in July with 133 mm (5.2 in), while summer months receive less rainfall. The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in December, with up to 329 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Ahipara climate.
Kaitaia, New Zealand, enjoys a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February are the warmest months, with average temperatures around 20-21°C (68-70°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is abundant, particularly in winter, peaking in July with about 125 mm (4.9 in). The region experiences significant sunshine, especially in December with approximately 340 hours. For more details, visit Kaitaia climate.
Kerikeri, New Zealand, enjoys a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February are the hottest months, with average temperatures around 20°C (69°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is more frequent from June to August, with July being the wettest month at 106 mm (4.2 in). The region also experiences significant sunshine, especially in December with 321 hours, making it an appealing destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Kerikeri climate.
Ngunguru, New Zealand experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February are the warmest months, with average temperatures reaching about 21°C (69°F) and precipitation peaking in February at 88 mm. During winter, temperatures drop to averages of around 13°C (56°F) in July and August, accompanied by higher rainfall, particularly in June with 145 mm. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in November and December, with over 300 hours of sunshine, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Ngunguru climate.
Opua, New Zealand, experiences a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters. January and February are the hottest months, with average temperatures around 20°C (69°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while July is the coolest month, averaging 12°C (54°F). Rainfall is relatively abundant, peaking in June with 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation, though January sees less rain at 49 mm (1.9 in). Sunshine hours fluctuate throughout the year, with December enjoying the most at 321 hours. For more details, visit Opua climate.
Paihia, New Zealand, experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January sees average temperatures around 20°C (69°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F), while winter months like July average 12°C (54°F) and can drop to 3°C (38°F). The region receives the highest rainfall in June (126 mm) and July (106 mm), with notable sunshine hours peaking in December (321 hours). Overall, Paihia offers a favorable climate for outdoor activities year-round. For more details, visit Paihia climate.
Russell, New Zealand enjoys a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February see the highest temperatures, averaging around 20-28°C (69-82°F), while July marks the coldest period with averages around 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is prevalent, particularly in winter months like June and July, receiving up to 126 mm (5.0 in) of rain. Despite the rainfall, Russell boasts ample sunshine, with December featuring the most hours at 321. For more detailed insights, visit Russell climate.
The climate in Waitangi, New Zealand, is characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year, with January as the warmest month, featuring average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 12°C (53°F). Winter months, particularly July, are cooler, with average temperatures dropping to 12°C (54°F) during the day. Rainfall varies significantly, peaking in June with 126 mm (5.0 in) and experiencing relatively less precipitation in January at 49 mm (1.9 in). Sunshine hours are abundant in the summer, especially in December, boasting 321 hours of sun. For a more detailed overview, visit Waitangi climate.
Whangarei, New Zealand, enjoys a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January and February are the warmest months, with average temperatures reaching around 21-20°C (69-68°F) and maximums up to 30°C (87°F), while July is the coolest, averaging 12°C (53°F). Precipitation is relatively high during winter months, particularly June, which sees about 119 mm (4.7 in) of rainfall. Whangarei also benefits from ample sunshine, with December receiving the most at 342 hours. For more details, visit Whangarei climate.
Whangarei Heads, New Zealand, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Summer months (December to February) feature warm highs averaging between 21°C (69°F) and 28°C (82°F), while winter (June to August) sees cooler temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) to 14°C (57°F). Precipitation peaks in June with 132 mm (5.2 in) and remains relatively consistent throughout the year, with the sunniest months being December (342 hours) and November (308 hours). Overall, the region enjoys a pleasant climate suitable for outdoor activities year-round. For more details, visit Whangarei Heads climate.
In conclusion, Northland, New Zealand, showcases a unique climate characterized by temperate maritime conditions with distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV Index, and daylight duration. The region's mild summers, marked by extended daylight and high UV levels, invite outdoor activities and rich biodiversity, while cooler winters introduce shorter daylight hours and a dip in sunshine. The interplay of these climatic factors not only shapes the natural landscape but also influences the lifestyle of its inhabitants. Understanding these patterns is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it highlights the importance of sun protection during peak UV periods and the need to adapt recreational activities according to the changing seasons.