Last updated: July 31, 2025
Norfolk Island boasts a mild temperate climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 27°C (80°F) in the warmest month of February, and an average temperature of 20°C (69°F) throughout the year. Temperature dips to a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in September, making the island a pleasant retreat year-round. The region receives annual precipitation of 860 mm (33.9 in), with rainy days varying monthly; February experiences the highest rainfall days at 10, while December features the least at just 5 days. Humidity levels fluctuate as well, reaching a peak at 83% in December and dropping to 70% in July. Overall, Norfolk Island's climate presents a unique blend of warm temperatures and varied precipitation, ideal for both exploration and relaxation.
Norfolk Island experiences a Cfa (Humid Subtropical) climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. This unique climate zone allows for lush vegetation, making the island a haven for rich biodiversity. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, ensuring the vibrant greens of the island flourish. Visitors can enjoy the temperate conditions that make outdoor activities enjoyable year-round, from hiking to exploring the stunning coastal scenery. The gentle sea breezes and moderate humidity further enhance the island's charm, creating an inviting atmosphere for both residents and tourists alike.
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The temperature on Norfolk Island varies significantly throughout the year, painting a picture of a mild climate that invites visitors year-round. January kicks off the year with warm days, averaging around 23°C (73°F), peaking at 25°C (77°F), before gradually cooling down as the seasons change. By February, temperatures rise slightly, reaching a max of 27°C (80°F). As autumn approaches in April, the island sees a gentle decline, with averages dropping to 22°C (72°F). The coolest months arrive in winter (June to August), where temperatures dip to a refreshing 15°C (59°F) at night and only reach the low 20s°C (68°F) during the day. But as spring emerges in September, a noteworthy shift occurs; temps begin to rise again, culminating in December when warmth returns with averages around 22°C (71°F). Overall, Norfolk Island's climate is a harmonious blend of warmth and freshness, making it an appealing destination throughout the year.
Norfolk Island experiences a diverse range of precipitation throughout the year, with a distinct peak in March and a notable drop during the summer months. January starts the year with a modest 63 mm of rain over about 5 days, gradually increasing to 93 mm in March, where it reaches its maximum. This trend of rising rainfall continues into May and June, both receiving around 90-91 mm, but with a higher frequency of rainy days, averaging 11 to 12. Following the wet season, July and August see a slight decrease in both precipitation volumes and days of rain, settling around 62 mm and 77 mm, respectively. The year closes with October and November witnessing another decrease in both metrics, while December wraps up the cycle with only 52 mm of rain over just 5 days, hinting at the island's seasonal rhythm. Overall, the precipitation patterns reflect a transition from the lush dampness of early autumn to the drier summer months, crafting a unique climate landscape on this idyllic island.
Norfolk Island's humidity levels exhibit a notable trend throughout the year, ranging from a high of 83% in December to a low of 70% in July. The island experiences its most humid months during the summer, particularly in January and February, both at a consistent 82%, creating a lush tropical feel. As autumn arrives in March, humidity dips slightly to 80% and continues to decrease, reaching its lowest point in mid-winter. From June to August, humidity remains relatively stable, hovering around 71%, before gradually climbing again in the latter months of the year. November sees a significant rise back to 81%, setting the stage for the humid conditions of December. Overall, this gentle ebb and flow of humidity gives Norfolk Island its lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems year-round.
Norfolk Island experiences a striking trend in UV Index values throughout the year, with the highest readings occurring during the summer months. January and February consistently showcase an extreme UV Index of 15, demanding caution with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the seasons shift to autumn, the UV Index begins to decline; March sees a slight drop to 13, followed by April's very high category at 9, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. By mid-year, the UV Index decreases further, reaching moderate levels of 5 in June and July, where protective measures can be a bit more relaxed with burn times of 30 minutes. However, as spring approaches, UV levels rise again, peaking at 14 in November, before culminating in another extreme 15 in December. This dynamic fluctuation in UV exposure underscores the importance of sun safety year-round, particularly during the peak months when protective measures are essential.
UV Risk Categories
Norfolk Island basks in abundant sunlight throughout the year, with October and December leading the way as the sunniest months, boasting 283 and an impressive 334 hours, respectively. Transitioning from the tail end of the year, November continues this trend with 309 hours, making it a prime time for sun-seekers. As summer gives way to autumn, there is a gentle decline, with April and May recording 257 and 231 hours of sunlight. Late winter months like June see the lowest sunshine at 226 hours, but the island quickly rebounds with increasing daylight in August, reaching 263 hours. Notably, September shines brightly at 275 hours, hinting at the picturesque spring that follows. Overall, Norfolk Island's sunshine duration showcases a delightful oscillation between vibrant summer days and the serene charm of winter, offering a unique taste of the island's climatic rhythm.
The likelihood of sunny weather in Norfolk Island reveals intriguing seasonal patterns throughout the year. With a promising 46% chance of sunshine in both January and July, the summer and winter months hold their own in terms of bright days. Interestingly, February and October exhibit the lowest chances, at 26% and 37%, respectively, suggesting a tendency for cloudier conditions. Meanwhile, the spring months show a moderate spike, especially in September, where the chance of sun peaks at 47%. As the year progresses towards November, the probabilities remain relatively steady, hovering around 44%. Overall, visitors can anticipate a blend of sunny stretches, particularly during the mid-year months, making for delightful opportunities to explore this picturesque destination.
Norfolk Island experiences a delightful rhythm of daylight throughout the year, starting strong with 13 hours in both January and February, enticing visitors to explore its stunning landscapes. As the seasons transition into March, daylight gently begins to taper off to 12 hours, marking the onset of autumn. By April, days shorten further to 11 hours, with May and June maintaining a steady 10 hours, inviting cozy indoor activities and reflective moments. However, as winter wanes, daylight gradually returns, with August bringing back 11 hours and October increasing to 12 hours. The cycle culminates in November and December, where daylight peaks once more at 13 hours, wrapping the year in a warm, sun-kissed embrace perfect for discovery and relaxation. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only shapes the island's activities but also enhances its natural beauty throughout the seasons.
The climate of Norfolk Island offers a delightful blend of mild temperatures and moderate humidity throughout the year, making it an inviting destination for visitors. January and February showcase the warmest weather, with average temperatures peaking at 24°C (75°F) and 27°C (80°F) respectively, accompanied by high humidity levels of 82%. As autumn approaches in April, temperatures begin to dip slightly, settling around 22°C (72°F), with humidity also displaying a gradual decrease. By winter, from June to August, the island experiences its coolest temperatures, averaging around 19°C (66°F), while humidity remains relatively stable and comfortable, between 70% and 72%. As spring emerges in September and October, temperatures slowly warm back up, averaging 19°C to 21°C (66°F to 70°F) and rekindling a vibrant, lush environment as the landscapes thrive under the island's nurturing climate. Overall, Norfolk Island's climate fosters a unique ecological balance, enhancing its natural beauty and offering a delightful experience for all who visit.