December Weather in Napier, New Zealand

Last updated: August 31, 2025

Discover the enchanting December weather of Napier, New Zealand, where temperatures typically soar to a delightful maximum of 27°C (80°F) and average around a comfortable 18°C (65°F). While basking in the sun, visitors should be prepared for occasional rainfall, as the region experiences about 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days throughout the month. With a humidity level of 66%, the coastal climate offers a refreshing and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the scenic beauty and outdoor activities this charming destination has to offer.

December Temperature in Napier

In December, Napier, New Zealand, enjoys a delightful transition into summer, with temperatures averaging around 18°C (65°F). The month warms up with daily maximums reaching a comfortable 27°C (80°F), perfect for outdoor activities and soaking in the sun. Nights remain mild, with minimum temperatures at about 10°C (51°F), fostering a pleasant atmosphere for evening gatherings. Compared to the preceding months, December presents a noticeable upward trend in warmth, making it a wonderful time to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. With temperatures steadily rising from the cooler autumn months, December sets the stage for the lush, sun-kissed days of summer ahead.

December Weather in Napier: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Napier, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Napier, December 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec676864615754525254576165
Data source: Temperature data for Napier generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Napier

In December, Napier experiences a moderate precipitation of 75 mm (3.0 in), marking the month's total at a similar level to the preceding November. This rainfall occurs over about 11 days, slightly above the monthly average, suggesting a festive month that blends sunny holiday weather with refreshing showers. Compared to the wetter winter months, December's precipitation is more balanced, contributing to the lush landscapes that New Zealand is renowned for during the peak of the summer season. The consistent rainfall patterns seen throughout the year indicate a climate that supports a vibrant ecosystem, making Napier a picturesque destination as it transitions into the warmer months.

December Precipitation Trends in Napier

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Napier, with values for each month alongside December’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Napier, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4562769171106775987697275
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Napier

In December, Napier, New Zealand, experiences a noticeable dip in humidity, with levels at 66%, contrasting sharply with the more humid months that precede it. Following a steady increase from 69% in January and February to a peak of 86% during the winter months, the summer shift marks a decline that begins in November's 74%. This trend suggests that as the year winds down, the coastal city can expect a brief respite from the moisture that typically blankets it, allowing for more comfortable conditions as the festive season approaches. Overall, December's lower humidity offers a pleasant change for residents and visitors alike, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities in Napier.

December Average Humidity in Napier

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Napier, with December’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In December, average humidity in Napier is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec69%69%71%74%83%86%86%83%78%77%74%66%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Napier

In December, Napier, New Zealand, experiences an extreme UV Index of 13, mirroring the intensity seen in November. The risk of sunburn is significant, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV levels is consistent throughout the summer months, as seen in January and February, where the UV Index remains at formidable levels of 14 and 13, respectively. As the seasons transition into autumn, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 9 in March and 7 in April, indicating a shift toward safer sun exposure. However, while December's UV levels demand caution, it also signals the arrival of delightful summer activities. For more detailed information on sun safety and local UV conditions, visit the Napier UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Napier for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Napier in December, 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 December, the maximum UV index in Napier typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1413974334691113
Data source: Napier December 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.

December Sunshine in Napier

As December rolls in, Napier, New Zealand, basks under an impressive 331 hours of sunshine, marking it the sunniest month of the year. This vibrant finale to the year showcases a clear upward trend in daylight, with December's hours reflecting a delightful contrast to the winter months of June and July, which offer only 169 and 197 hours respectively. The gradual increase from 210 hours in May to this sparkling December peak illustrates the region's transition from cooler seasons to the abundant warmth of summer. Travelers and locals alike can revel in the glow of longer days, making this coastal haven a perfect spot for outdoor activities and festive celebrations.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Napier: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Napier experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec284h277h269h231h211h169h197h228h245h281h296h331h
Data source: Napier December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Napier During December

In Napier, New Zealand, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in December stands at a moderate 42%, marking it as a transitional month with varied sunshine. As the year progresses, December's sunshine probability sits comfortably between the brighter earlier months like January, which boasts a 59% chance of sun, and the darker winter months such as June and October, which dip to 37%. This trend suggests that while December offers a respectable opportunity for bright days, it also hints at the less predictable weather patterns typical of late spring. As summer looms ahead, residents and visitors can anticipate a mix of sun and clouds, making it a delightful but somewhat uncertain time for outdoor activities.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Napier

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Napier throughout the year, with December 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 Napier experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec59%42%35%58%45%37%47%56%50%37%39%42%
Data source: Napier December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Napier in December

In Napier, New Zealand, December marks the peak of daylight duration, boasting an impressive 14 hours of sunlight that invites both adventure and relaxation. As the year unfolds, a noticeable trend emerges: from the sun-drenched heights of summer in January, daylight begins a gradual decline, reaching a low of 9 hours during the winter months of May through July. However, as spring approaches, the days slowly stretch out again, bringing a delightful resurgence of light in October and November. This cyclical rhythm not only enriches the seasonal experience but also showcases the vibrant charm of Napier as it transitions from the lush warmth of summer to the cooler days of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Napier for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Napier throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 35m13h 35m12h 18m11h 1m9h 56m9h 23m9h 39m10h 36m11h 49m13h 7m14h 17m14h 53m
Data source: Napier daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Napier

As December sweeps into Napier, New Zealand, the winds begin to whisper a gentle lullaby, with an average wind speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph)—the calmest of the year. This marks a subtle decline from the breezy spell of spring and summer months, where gusts frequently reached around 4.0 to 4.7 m/s. As the year nears its end, December introduces a tranquil ease, contrasting with the robust winds earlier in the year, particularly in May and June. This seasonal shift signals not only the onset of warmer fun but also a gentle invitation to bask in Napier's coastal beauty, where the softer winds set the perfect stage for leisurely outdoor activities.

Average December Wind Speed in Napier

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Napier, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.04.34.13.54.64.74.04.44.54.04.13.7 m/s
Data source: Napier December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Napier Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences around 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 66%. January sees a slight increase in temperature, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), while still peaking at 27°C (81°F). Precipitation drops to 45 mm (1.8 in) over just 6 days, and humidity rises slightly to 69%. For more detailed information, visit Napier weather in January.

December and February exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences approximately 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days and has a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and a peak of 31°C (87°F), averaging 20°C (68°F). Although February has less rainfall, totaling 62 mm (2.5 in) over only 7 days, the humidity remains similar at 69%. For more detailed insights into February weather, you can visit Napier weather in February.

In comparing the weather between December and March, both months exhibit similar temperature patterns, with average highs around 18°C (65°F). December features a slightly wider range, with minimum temperatures dipping to 10°C (51°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (80°F), while March starts a bit warmer with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation levels are almost identical, with December seeing 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, and March experiencing 76 mm (3.0 in) over just 10 days. Notably, humidity is a tad higher in March at 71%, compared to 66% in December. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can check out Napier weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, several key differences emerge. December typically features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while April sees slightly cooler averages, with minimum temperatures around 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December experiences average humidity levels of 66%, compared to April's higher humidity at 74%. Precipitation is more pronounced in April, with 91 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days, in contrast to December's 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. For more detailed insights, you can check Napier weather in April.

In December, the weather is generally warmer than in May, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 22°C (73°F), averaging 14°C (57°F). While both months see similar precipitation levels, December has slightly more rainfall at 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days compared to May's 70 mm (2.8 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in May at 83%, compared to December's 66%. For more details on May weather in Napier, check out Napier weather in May.

When comparing the weather in December and June, December tends to be warmer, with temperatures averaging 18°C (65°F) compared to June's average of 12°C (54°F). December also boasts higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 27°C (80°F), whereas June reaches a maximum of only 19°C (66°F). In terms of precipitation, June is slightly wetter, receiving 106 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, while December has 75 mm (3.0 in) across 11 days. Additionally, June experiences higher humidity levels at 85%, compared to December's 66%. For more detailed information, you can check Napier weather in June.

In December, the weather is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). The precipitation is fairly moderate at 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a comfortable humidity level of 66%. In contrast, July experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Despite a similar amount of rainfall at 77 mm (3.0 in) over the same number of days, the humidity is higher at 86%, making July feel quite damp. For those interested in more detailed weather patterns, you can check Napier weather in July.

When comparing the weather in December and August, December generally offers warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while August experiences cooler temperatures with a range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation in December is slightly higher at 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, compared to August's 59 mm (2.3 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, humidity levels are more pronounced in August at 83%, while December's humidity averages around 66%. For more detailed information, you can check Napier weather in August.

In December, the weather is considerably warmer compared to September, with minimum temperatures around 10°C (51°F) and averaging 18°C (65°F), reaching a maximum of 27°C (80°F). In contrast, September experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 20°C (68°F). While both months see a similar level of precipitation, December has slightly less with 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, compared to September's 87 mm (3.4 in) over 10 days. Additionally, December's humidity at 66% is lower than September's 78%, making December feel more comfortable despite being warmer. For more details on September weather in Napier, visit Napier weather in September.

December typically offers warmer weather compared to October, with minimum temperatures around 10°C (51°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), whereas October's figures are slightly cooler, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach up to 27°C (80°F), compared to October’s 23°C (74°F). Despite December’s higher temperatures, it features slightly more precipitation at 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, while October sees 69 mm (2.7 in) over 9 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in October at 77%, compared to 66% in December. For a closer look at October’s weather patterns, visit Napier weather in October.

In comparison to November, December experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), as opposed to November's minimum of 9°C (49°F) and average of 16°C (62°F). The maximum temperatures in December also reach up to 27°C (80°F), while November tops at 25°C (77°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days and November totaling 72 mm (2.8 in) over 9 days. Interestingly, December's humidity is somewhat lower at 66%, compared to November's higher humidity level of 74%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Napier weather in November.

Compare Napier's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Napier

As December rolls in, Napier transforms into a vibrant summer destination, boasting warmer temperatures and an inviting atmosphere. With an average temperature around a pleasant 18°C, the month offers a delightful escape from the cooler months, often reaching highs of 27°C. While some rainfall is expected, with about 75 mm spread over 11 days, the humidity hovers around 66%, enhancing the warm, summery feel of the city. This combination of warmth and occasional showers differentiates December from other months, making it a perfect time for outdoor adventures and exploring the stunning coastal scenery. For more insights on the overall weather patterns, visit Napier Climate.