January Weather in Christchurch, New Zealand

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In Christchurch, New Zealand, January brings a delightful mix of summer warmth and refreshing Austral breezes. With maximum temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), the days are pleasantly warm, perfect for outdoor activities. However, the month's minimum temperature dips to 10°C (50°F), adding a cool edge to the evenings. This summer month sees 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread over seven days, contributing to a relative humidity of 72%. Overall, January in Christchurch offers a vibrant yet comfortable climate, ideal for exploring the city's natural beauty.

January Temperature in Christchurch

In Christchurch, New Zealand, January offers a delightful summer experience, with temperatures ranging from a cool 10°C (50°F) at night to a warm 28°C (82°F) during the day, making the average a comfortable 17°C (63°F). As the month unfolds, the weather maintains its warmth, mirroring February's similar range, and inviting outdoor adventures. However, by March, a gentle decline begins, with highs dropping to 25°C (77°F) and a noticeable shift in the overall feel as autumn approaches. The transition to cooler months becomes more pronounced in April and May, where maximum temperatures progressively decrease to 23°C (74°F) and 20°C (69°F), respectively. By June, winter takes hold with lows sliding to 2°C (36°F), marking a significant turnaround in Christchurch's climate. This rhythmic shift in temperatures not only characterizes the city’s seasonal charm but also beckons visitors to embrace its changing beauty throughout the year.

January Weather in Christchurch: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Christchurch, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Christchurch, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec636360565248464850535760
Data source: Temperature data for Christchurch generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Christchurch

In January, Christchurch experiences a relatively mild start to the year, with precipitation measuring 47 mm (1.8 in) over seven days. This figure sets a baseline for the month, showcasing a lighter rainfall compared to the later months, yet it foreshadows an escalating pattern as the year progresses. Following January, precipitation tends to increase steadily; for instance, February sees a slight decrease with 40 mm, but from March onward, rainfall inches upwards, peaking in December at a significant 81 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days. This trend highlights a characteristic shift towards wetter conditions, with April and November also standing out for their notable rainfall totals of 70 mm and 68 mm, respectively. The fluctuating but generally rising pattern of precipitation underscores the seasonal transition in Christchurch, marking a journey from the drier start of the year to a richly watered end.

January Precipitation Trends in Christchurch

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Christchurch, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Christchurch, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec474055705266664746566881
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Christchurch

In Christchurch, New Zealand, the humidity during January is a comfortable 72%, marking the start of a gradual increase that peaks in the cooler months. Following January, the humidity remains consistent at 72% in February, reflecting the mellow summer atmosphere. However, as autumn sets in, March witnesses a rise to 77%, which persists through April. The trend continues upward as the year progresses, with humidity levels climbing to 82% in May and reaching a peak of 85% in July. This mid-winter spike showcases the region's dampness, while a slight decrease to 82% in August and September brings a touch of relief. As the year rounds out, humidity levels decline gradually, concluding with 75% in December, suggesting a seasonal cycle that embraces both crisp winters and more humid summers.

January Average Humidity in Christchurch

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Christchurch, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Christchurch is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec72%72%77%77%82%84%85%83%82%79%77%75%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Christchurch

In Christchurch during January, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 13, indicating a critical need for sun protection, as skin can burn in just 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. This trend of high UV levels continues into February with a UV Index of 12, maintaining the extreme category and the same burn time. As summer wanes into March, the UV Index drops to 9, classified as very high, yet still requiring vigilance with a burn time of 15 minutes. As we transition into the cooler months, April sees a decline to 6 (high) with a longer burn time of 25 minutes, and by May, the index drops further to 3 (moderate) while burn time extends to 30 minutes. The UV Index remains relatively low through the winter months, hitting 2 in both June and July, before climbing back up to 3 in August. Sharply rising again, it hits 10 in November, settling at 12 by December, echoing the extreme levels at the start of the year. To keep safe from the sun's rays in Christchurch, check the full details at Christchurch UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Christchurch for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Christchurch in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Christchurch typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1312963223591012
Data source: Christchurch January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Christchurch

In January, Christchurch basks in 279 hours of sunshine, marking the month as a vibrant start to the year. This sun-soaked energy crescendos into February, which boasts an impressive 300 hours, encouraging outdoor adventures and community gatherings. As summer wanes, March sees a slight dip to 268 hours, followed by April with 232 hours, as cooler days begin to prevail. The trend continues into the winter months, where May offers 205 hours and June sees the least light at 165 hours. However, as spring approaches, the sun returns with vigor, peaking in November with a bright 314 hours and reaching an impressive 334 hours in December. This ebb and flow of sunshine not only shapes the local climate but also influences the rhythm of life in this charming city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Christchurch: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Christchurch experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec279h300h268h232h205h165h186h221h251h294h314h334h
Data source: Christchurch January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Christchurch During January

In Christchurch, New Zealand, January boasts a 40% chance of sunny weather, setting a vibrant tone for the summer month. As we transition into February and March, that likelihood slightly increases to 43%, reflecting a consistent warmth and brightness typical of the season. However, as autumn approaches in April, the chance of sunshine rises to a more promising 54%, before gradually tapering off in the cooler months. May and July maintain a close probability at 49% and 41%, respectively, while winter months like June dip to 31%. Interestingly, September marks a turning point with a 51% chance of clearer skies, hinting at the return of warmer weather. Although the chances fluctuate throughout the year, January remains a dependable month for those seeking sunny days in this picturesque region.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Christchurch

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Christchurch throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Christchurch experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec40%43%43%54%49%31%41%43%51%32%33%32%
Data source: Christchurch January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Christchurch in January

In Christchurch, New Zealand, January marks the peak of daylight duration, basking in a generous 14 hours of sunlight. As the summer wanes into February, daylight modestly decreases to 13 hours, setting the stage for the transition into autumn. March continues this trend, with daylight dwindling to 12 hours. April brings a sharper decline, down to 10 hours, paving the way for the cooler months ahead. By May, daylight reduces further to 9 hours, while June’s winter settles in with just 8 hours of sunshine. Interestingly, as winter begins to recede in July, daylight experiences a slight uptick, returning to 9 hours. August and September continue this gradual increase, with 10 and 11 hours of daylight respectively, before October restores 13 hours as spring approaches. November and December welcome back summer with 14 and 15 hours of daylight, respectively, completing a vibrant cycle of changing light that shapes the rhythm of life in this picturesque city.

Average Daylight Hours in Christchurch for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Christchurch throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 59m13h 49m12h 20m10h 51m9h 36m8h 58m9h 16m10h 22m11h 47m13h 17m14h 38m15h 21m
Data source: Christchurch daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Christchurch

In Christchurch, January greets residents with a lively average wind speed of 5.0 m/s (11 mph), making it the windiest month of the year. This vibrant air movement sets a spirited tone, with the winds gradually tapering off as the months progress; February and March follow closely with speeds of 4.2 m/s and 4.1 m/s respectively. The winds remain relatively consistent into the cooler months, fluctuating between 3.7 m/s (June) and 4.7 m/s (October). Notably, late spring through early summer exhibits a gentle resurgence, with December's winds inching back up to 4.8 m/s. Overall, the wind patterns in Christchurch reveal a refreshing dynamism in January, a bustling precursor to the calmer seasons ahead.

Average January Wind Speed in Christchurch

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Christchurch, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.0 m/s4.24.13.94.43.74.04.44.44.74.44.8
Data source: Christchurch January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Christchurch Compares to Other Months

Weather in Christchurch varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Christchurch, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In January, temperatures in Christchurch range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences about 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 7 days, while humidity remains steady at 72%.

In February, the weather is quite similar, with minimum temperatures slightly lower at 9°C (49°F), but maintaining the same average and maximum temperatures as January, at 17°C (63°F) and 28°C (83°F) respectively. Precipitation decreases to 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 6 days, while humidity also holds at 72%.

For more detailed insights into the weather conditions during February, you can check out Christchurch weather in February.

January and March present a noticeable evolution in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average around 17°C (63°F). The month experiences considerable sunshine, with 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 7 days and humidity averaging 72%. In contrast, March sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation increases to 55 mm (2.2 in) over 9 days, and humidity rises to 77%. This shift highlights a transition towards more variable and damp conditions as summer gives way to autumn. For more details on March weather, visit Christchurch weather in March.

In January, the weather typically showcases a warm climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), averaging around 17°C (63°F). The month experiences about 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation across 7 days, with a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, April sees cooler temperatures, with a range from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation, totaling 70 mm (2.8 in) over 8 days and slightly increased humidity at 77%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check Christchurch weather in April.

In January, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). The month sees about 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, and the humidity is moderate at 72%. In contrast, May experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), averaging at 11°C (52°F). The precipitation slightly increases to 52 mm (2.1 in) over the same number of days but comes with a higher humidity level of 82%. For more detailed insights on the weather in May, you can visit Christchurch weather in May.

In January, the weather is generally pleasant with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while the average temperature rests at 17°C (63°F). This month experiences lighter precipitation, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) over about 7 days, and humidity levels are moderate at 72%.

In contrast, June brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), resulting in a lower average of 9°C (48°F). The rainfall increases slightly to 66 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, contributing to a higher humidity of 84%. For more detailed insights on the weather during this month, check out Christchurch weather in June.

In January, the weather tends to be quite warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences moderate humidity at 72%, along with a total precipitation of 47 mm (1.8 in) over about 7 days. In contrast, July showcases a much cooler climate, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and peaking at 15°C (59°F), averaging only 8°C (47°F). The increased humidity of 85% and higher precipitation levels of 66 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days contribute to a distinctly chilly and damp atmosphere. For more detailed information, you can check Christchurch weather in July.

In January, the weather is significantly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). This month experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) over about 7 days, coupled with a relatively comfortable humidity level of 72%. In contrast, August brings much cooler temperatures, with averages dipping to a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of only 16°C (62°F). Despite having similar precipitation levels of 46 mm (1.8 in), August sees slightly more rainy days, totaling 8. The humidity also increases to 82%, making the air feel a bit heavier. For more detailed information, you can check out Christchurch weather in August.

In January, the weather is considerably milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), and a moderate humidity level of 72%. The month experiences 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about 7 days. In contrast, September brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of just 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 82%. Precipitation levels remain similar, with 46 mm (1.8 in) expected over 8 days. For a more detailed look at September weather in Christchurch, check out Christchurch weather in September.

In January, the weather is generally warmer with average temperatures ranging from a comfortable 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). The month sees less rainfall, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) over about 7 days, and a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, with averages around 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (72°F), alongside slightly higher precipitation of 56 mm (2.2 in) spread over 10 days. Additionally, October tends to be more humid, with levels rising to 79%. For more detailed information, you can check Christchurch weather in October.

In comparing the weather between January and November, January tends to be warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), resulting in a pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with an average ranging from 7°C (44°F) to 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is higher in November, totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) over 8 days, compared to January's 47 mm (1.8 in) over 7 days, reflecting a wetter pattern as the year comes to an end. Additionally, November's humidity is slightly higher at 77%, compared to January's 72%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Christchurch weather in November.

In January, the weather is slightly warmer than in December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), compared to December's minimum of 9°C (48°F) and maximum of 26°C (78°F). January also sees less precipitation, with 47 mm (1.8 in) falling over about 7 days, while December experiences heavier rainfall of 81 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days. The humidity levels are comparable, at 72% for January and 75% for December. For more details on December weather patterns, you can visit Christchurch weather in December.

Compare Christchurch's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Christchurch

In January, Christchurch experiences its warmest month of the year, with temperatures reaching a pleasant average of around 17°C, making it an inviting time for outdoor activities. While rainfall is fairly moderate, with about a week of precipitation, the overall humidity remains at 72%, adding a touch of warmth to the summer atmosphere. This combination of warmth and occasional showers sets January apart from the cooler, wetter months, providing a vibrant backdrop for locals and visitors alike. For a deeper insight into the climatic variations throughout the year, explore more at Christchurch Climate.