Last updated: August 31, 2025
December in Rotorua, New Zealand offers a delightful mix of warm temperatures and refreshing rain. With a maximum temperature of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F), the month is characterized by sunny afternoons and cool evenings, perfect for outdoor adventures. However, travelers should be prepared for the occasional downpour, as 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation falls over 13 days. The humidity hovers around 66%, adding a touch of tropical warmth to the air. Whether you're exploring geothermal wonders or enjoying the vibrant local culture, December in Rotorua is a captivating experience that blends comfort and charm.
In Rotorua, New Zealand, December ushers in the warmth of summer with a delightful blend of temperatures. As the year winds to a close, the minimum temperature hovers around a comfortable 5°C (41°F), while the average settles at a pleasant 17°C (62°F). Maximally, the days can heat up to 28°C (83°F), providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures and soaking in the region's famous geothermal wonders. This month marks a noticeable upward trend from the cooler spring temperatures of November, emphasizing Rotorua’s transition into the vibrant summer season, where longer days and warmer nights set the stage for festive gatherings and exploration. Overall, December offers a perfect invitation to enjoy the beauty and excitement of this stunning destination.
In December, Rotorua experiences a notable shift as the festive season sets in, marked by an average precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in), similar to the rainfall levels seen in November. With 13 days of precipitation, the month closes the year with a consistent dampness that echoes the trend of increased rainfall typical in the later months. This gradual rise in precipitation is evident from the start of spring through to December, contributing to the lush environments that characterize the region during summer. Overall, the pattern reflects Rotorua's climate dynamic, where moisture levels peak in the final months of the year, underscoring the importance of preparation for both locals and visitors alike.
In December, Rotorua experiences a drop in humidity, registering at 66%, making it one of the drier months of the year. This decline contrasts with the increasing trend observed from late autumn through early winter, where humidity levels peak at 86% in July. The transition from warmer months shows a gradual rise in moisture until May, after which humidity remains relatively high through September. However, December marks a shift towards a more comfortable, drier atmosphere, paving the way for summer activities while still retaining a hint of the region's characteristic dampness. Overall, this month encapsulates the balance between a humid environment and the onset of warmer, sunnier days.
In December, Rotorua experiences a UV Index of 13, categorizing it as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV radiation continues from the previous month, where November recorded a similar index of 11. As summer approaches, residents and visitors should remain vigilant, especially as the UV levels peak during these warmer months. The consistent pattern of extreme and very high categories in the early summer signifies the importance of sun protection during this time. For more information on managing UV exposure, check Rotorua UV Index.
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In December, Rotorua basks in a remarkable average of 320 sunshine hours, marking the peak of summer and the beginning of its warmest, sunniest season. This trend follows November's generous 288 hours, showcasing a gradual increase in daylight as the year draws to a close. The notable jump from 200 hours in May to December's sun-drenched offering indicates a significant shift in weather patterns, making the region an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. As the year progresses, sunshine hours generally dip during the winter months of June and July, but December shines brightly, inviting visitors to enjoy its stunning geothermal landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences underneath the sun.
In Rotorua, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at 31%, slightly above the less favorable months preceding it. As we transition from late spring into summer, a glimpse of optimism emerges in the sunniest months of early summer, with January peaking at 47%. December shows a moderate chance of sunshine, maintaining a trend of fluctuating sun exposure throughout the year, particularly as the days grow longer. While December's sunlight may not be guaranteed, it offers a welcome reprieve from the gloomier winter months, providing opportunities to enjoy the vibrant landscape and geothermal wonders that make Rotorua unique.
In Rotorua, New Zealand, December shines brightly with an impressive 14 hours of daylight, mirroring the long, sunlit days of January and November. As the year progresses from the peak of summer, daylight gradually shortens, starting from the height of 14 hours in January, decreasing to 10 hours by May. This trend of diminishing daylight continues through the winter months of June and July, where the sun graces the sky for a mere 9 hours. However, as spring approaches in August, daylight begins to stretch once more, gradually returning to 14 hours by the end of November and maintaining that generous duration through December. This cyclical ebb and flow of daylight illustrates Rotorua's vibrant seasonal shifts, providing a Sunshine-filled backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.
As December blankets Rotorua, the wind whips through at an average speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), maintaining a pleasant summer breeziness reminiscent of the months preceding it. The wind speeds show a subtle, but noticeable upward trend as the year progresses, with the gentle gusts of December echoing the stronger breezes of September and October, which reached 3.5 m/s (8 mph) and 3.3 m/s (7 mph) respectively. This gradual increase signifies a transition into the warmer, energetic summer months, inviting outdoor adventures amidst Rotorua's stunning geothermal landscapes. Embracing the refreshing winds, visitors and locals alike can revel in the vibrant atmosphere that December brings, making it an ideal time for exploration and enjoyment.
Weather in Rotorua varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Rotorua, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between December and January, we find that January experiences slightly warmer temperatures overall, with average highs of 29°C (84°F) compared to December's 28°C (83°F). The minimum temperatures also increase modestly, rising from 5°C (41°F) in December to 6°C (44°F) in January. Moreover, January sees a notable decrease in precipitation, with only 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, while December has 116 mm (4.6 in) spread across 13 days. Humidity remains similar, slightly increasing from 66% in December to 69% in January. For more detailed daily weather patterns in January, you can check Rotorua weather in January.
In December, temperatures in Rotorua range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F) and notable precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in) spread over 13 days, resulting in a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, February sees slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 7°C (45°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (87°F), while the average temperature is 18°C (65°F). Precipitation decreases to 96 mm (3.8 in) over just 7 days, and humidity rises slightly to 69%. For more detailed insights into February’s weather, you can check Rotorua weather in February.
When comparing December and March weather, both months exhibit mild temperatures and a moderate amount of precipitation. December typically boasts a minimum temperature of around 5°C (41°F) and averages a pleasant 17°C (62°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). In contrast, March starts slightly warmer, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), reaching a maximum of 26°C (79°F).
Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving about 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days and March just slightly higher at 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days. Interestingly, humidity is also a bit higher in March at 71% compared to December's 66%. For a more detailed look at March weather specifics, you can check out Rotorua weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, December generally offers warmer temperatures, with minimums around 5°C (41°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (83°F), while April sees slightly cooler readings, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Both months experience substantial precipitation, with December totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, while April has slightly more at 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days. Furthermore, April tends to have higher humidity at 74%, compared to December's 66%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, you can check out Rotorua weather in April.
When comparing the weather between December and May, notable differences emerge. December boasts a milder climate with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while May experiences cooler temperatures, with a range from -1°C (31°F) to 19°C (67°F). Additionally, December has higher precipitation, averaging 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, compared to May's 95 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels also vary, with December sitting at 66% and May being more humid at 83%. For more detailed information, you can check Rotorua weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures are generally warmer, with minimums around 5°C (41°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (83°F), averaging at 17°C (62°F). The month experiences mild humidity at 66% and rainfall of 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 13 days. In contrast, June is significantly cooler, with minimum temperatures falling to -2°C (29°F) and maximums peaking at 17°C (63°F), averaging just 9°C (48°F). The humidity is higher at 85%, and precipitation closely follows December's pattern, totaling 110 mm (4.3 in) over roughly 10 days. For more details on the weather in June, see Rotorua weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, there are notable differences in temperature and conditions. December enjoys a much warmer range with minimum temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and highs soaring to 28°C (83°F), while the average temperature sits at a comfortable 17°C (62°F). In contrast, July is significantly cooler, with minimum temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F) and an average of just 8°C (46°F), peaking at 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels are similar in both months, with December receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days and July slightly higher at 125 mm (4.9 in) over 12 days. Additionally, July sees increased humidity at 86%, compared to December's 66%. For a closer look at July's weather, check out Rotorua weather in July.
When comparing the weather of December and August, it's evident that December is characterized by much warmer temperatures, with an average high of 28°C (83°F) compared to August's maximum of only 15°C (60°F). While December enjoys moderate humidity levels of 66%, August sees a higher humidity of 83%, which can make the cooler temperatures feel chillier. In terms of precipitation, both months experience significant rainfall—116 mm (4.6 in) in December and 125 mm (4.9 in) in August, but August tends to have slightly more rainy days with 15 days of precipitation versus 13 in December. For more detailed insights on weather conditions during August, you can visit Rotorua weather in August.
The weather in December is notably warmer compared to September, with average temperatures reaching 17°C (62°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while September sees a cooler average of 10°C (50°F) and a max of 18°C (64°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days and September slightly less at 115 mm (4.5 in) over 14 days. However, humidity levels are higher in September at 78%, compared to December's 66%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can visit Rotorua weather in September.
In December, the weather tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), compared to October, which has cooler temperatures ranging from 1°C (33°F) to 22°C (73°F). While both months experience significant rainfall, December sees slightly higher precipitation levels at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, while October has 106 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days. Furthermore, humidity levels in December are at 66%, lower than October's 77%, making December feel a bit more comfortable overall. For more details on October weather, you can visit Rotorua weather in October.
December generally experiences slightly warmer weather compared to November, with average temperatures rising from 15°C (58°F) in November to 17°C (62°F) in December. While both months have similar minimum temperatures, the maximum temperature in December peaks at 28°C (83°F), compared to 29°C (85°F) in November. Precipitation levels increase in December, with 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain recorded over 13 days, whereas November sees 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain within the same timeframe. Additionally, December's humidity is lower at 66%, compared to November's 74%, suggesting that while December may be warmer, it feels a bit drier. For more detailed information on November weather, visit Rotorua weather in November.
December in Rotorua marks the onset of summer, featuring warmer temperatures and a significant increase in humidity, making it quite distinct from the cooler months. With the mercury often peaking at a comfortable 28°C, visitors can enjoy the vibrant landscapes while the average temperature settles at a pleasant 17°C. However, it's essential to prepare for some rain, as December sees about 13 days of precipitation, contributing to a total of 116 mm. This balance of warmth and moisture creates a lively atmosphere perfect for exploring Rotorua's geothermal wonders and lush surroundings. For a more comprehensive look at the weather patterns throughout the year, visit Rotorua Climate.