January Weather in New Plymouth, New Zealand

Last updated: August 31, 2025

January in New Plymouth, New Zealand showcases a delightful summer climate marked by a maximum temperature of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The month experiences a minimum temperature of 12°C (53°F), offering pleasant evenings. However, expect around 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain over 9 days, adding a refreshing touch to the vibrant landscape. With humidity levels at 79%, the air feels wonderfully warm, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful summer days. Whether exploring scenic coastlines or savoring local cuisine, January's weather sets the perfect backdrop for memorable experiences.

January Temperature in New Plymouth

In New Plymouth during January, the weather is pleasantly warm, characterized by a comfortable average temperature of 18°C (65°F). With minimum temperatures around 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (75°F), it's an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach outings. This trend of mild evenings and balmy days sets the stage for a vibrant summer atmosphere, which continues into February with similar warmth. As the season progresses into March, temperatures slightly taper off, inching down to an average of 18°C (64°F). The overall pattern reveals a gradual transition from warmer summer days to cooler autumn nights, showcasing New Plymouth's moderate climate that offers the best of both worlds for visitors and locals alike.

January Weather in New Plymouth: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in New Plymouth, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In New Plymouth, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec646664615855535354565963
Data source: Temperature data for New Plymouth 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.

January Precipitation in New Plymouth

In January, New Plymouth experiences a moderate precipitation level of 94 mm (3.7 in), spread over just 9 days, marking it as one of the drier months of the year. As summer transitions into autumn, February sees a slight uptick to 95 mm (3.7 in) while maintaining a similar pattern of rainfall days. However, the weather soon takes a turn, with March ushering in a significant increase to 160 mm (6.3 in) over 12 days, heralding the arrival of more consistent rainfall. This trend continues into April and May, where totals climb further to 207 mm (8.1 in) and 195 mm (7.7 in) respectively. The winter months amplify this pattern, peaking in July with 224 mm (8.8 in) across 18 days, emphasizing New Plymouth's shift to wetter conditions. As the year progresses, precipitation gradually tapers off, reflecting the city's dynamic climate cycle and the impact of seasonal changes on its weather patterns.

January Precipitation Trends in New Plymouth

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in New Plymouth, 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 New Plymouth, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9495160207195155224214174141139180
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in New Plymouth

In January, New Plymouth experiences a relatively high humidity level of 79%, setting the tone for the summer months. This figure slightly dips to 77% in February and continues its gradual decline through March, reaching 75%. However, as autumn progresses into April, humidity levels bounce back to 76%, hinting at a cycle of seasonal moisture. Interestingly, the trend sharply rises heading into winter, with humidity peaking at 84% in July. The latter half of the year maintains a consistent range, hovering between 80% and 83%, suggesting that while the summer months begin with noticeable moisture, the real humidity challenge lies in the cooler seasons, where the air feels significantly heavier. Overall, New Plymouth's climate reflects a nuanced ebb and flow of humidity, deeply intertwined with its seasonal shifts.

January Average Humidity in New Plymouth

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in New Plymouth, 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 New Plymouth is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%77%75%76%81%83%84%81%80%82%82%80%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in New Plymouth

In January, New Plymouth experiences a UV Index of 14, categorizing exposure as extreme, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. This high level of UV radiation is consistent with the trend observed in the surrounding months, as February also registers an extraordinarily high index of 13. However, as summer transitions to autumn, the UV Index starts to decline, dropping to 9 in March before further decreasing to high and moderate levels in the subsequent months. By the time we reach June through August, the UV Index stabilizes at 3 to 4, offering a more manageable exposure. The index rises again in spring, with values of 6 in September and 9 in October. As the year winds down, November brings another surge to 11 before reaching 13 in December, maintaining that extreme status. Overall, the data illustrates a distinct pattern, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during those peak summer months. For more detailed insights, visit New Plymouth UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in New Plymouth for January

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

In January, New Plymouth basks in ample sunshine, enjoying an impressive 276 hours of bright, sunny days—setting the tone for a vibrant summer. This warm weather peaks in February with 284 hours of sunshine, making it the sunniest month of the year. As summer transitions to autumn, hours dip slightly in March to 275, but the warmth lingers before a notable decline begins in April with 230 hours. By June, the shorter days bring fewer rays, dropping to 180 hours, the least sunny month. Yet, as spring approaches, there's a resurgence of light, with August seeing an uptick to 234 hours. The year concludes with a magnificent burst of sunlight in December, reaching 338 hours, providing a bright farewell to the year. This cyclical rhythm of sunshine not only highlights New Plymouth’s seasonal shifts but also enhances its charm throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in New Plymouth: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours New Plymouth 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec276h284h275h230h208h180h195h234h251h271h310h338h
Data source: New Plymouth January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in New Plymouth During January

In January, New Plymouth enjoys a 53% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This bright start to summer is a delightful contrast to the cooler, cloudier winter months, where the likelihood of sunshine dips to as low as 37% in July and August. As the seasons shift into autumn, sunshine opportunities gradually decline, with February following closely at 47%, before hitting 44% in April and 41% in May. Interestingly, while the peak sunshine months are early in the year, a slight resurgence occurs in September and November, both returning to 44% and 48% respectively. Overall, January stands out as a beacon of warmth and light, setting the tone for outdoor activities as the year unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in New Plymouth

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in New Plymouth 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 New Plymouth experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec53%47%48%44%41%39%37%37%44%28%48%31%
Data source: New Plymouth January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in New Plymouth in January

January in New Plymouth, New Zealand, shines with 14 hours of daylight, marking the peak of summer. As the month rolls into February, the days gradually shorten to 13 hours, signaling a gentle transition toward autumn. This daylight trend continues into March, where it's reduced to 12 hours, and by April, it dips further to 11 hours. The length of daylight stabilizes at 9 hours during the winter months of May, June, and July, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for indoor activities. As spring approaches in August, daylight begins to creep back, increasing to 10 hours, and by September, it bounces back to 11 hours. The resurgence continues into October and November, where the days extend to 13 and 14 hours, respectively, while December rounds off the year brightly with another 14 hours of daylight. This rhythm of daylight emphasizes New Plymouth's seasonal cycles, blending longer days of summer with the shorter, more intimate winter months.

Average Daylight Hours in New Plymouth for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in New Plymouth throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 32m13h 33m12h 18m11h 2m9h 58m9h 27m9h 42m10h 37m11h 49m13h 6m14h 14m14h 50m
Data source: New Plymouth daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in New Plymouth

In New Plymouth during January, the average wind speed registers at 5.0 m/s (11 mph), setting the tone for the summer months. As the year progresses, there's a noticeable trend where wind speeds gradually increase, peaking in July at 6.6 m/s (15 mph). This pattern continues with August and September following closely, showcasing robust breezes that are typical of the region. Interestingly, after reaching these highs, the wind speed exhibits a slight decline, stabilizing around 5.4 m/s (12 mph) by October and maintaining a consistent pace through late autumn into early winter. This dynamic gives New Plymouth a unique character, with January's mild airs giving way to the more invigorating gusts that define successive months.

Average January Wind Speed in New Plymouth

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in New Plymouth, 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/s4.75.45.56.45.86.66.56.95.45.25.6
Data source: New Plymouth January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in New Plymouth Compares to Other Months

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

In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences 94 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In comparison, February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), while still reaching a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Precipitation remains similar at 95 mm (3.7 in), but it is spread across 10 days and features slightly lower humidity at 77%. For more detailed information, you can check New Plymouth weather in February.

In January, temperatures in New Plymouth range from a minimum of 12°C to a maximum of 24°C, with an average of 18°C. The month experiences moderate precipitation of 94 mm over about 9 days, combined with a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, March sees a slight increase in minimum temperature at 13°C, but the maximum drops to 22°C, maintaining a similar average of 18°C. However, March is notably wetter, with precipitation totaling 160 mm across 12 days and slightly lower humidity at 75%. For more detailed information, check out New Plymouth weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, January tends to be warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). In contrast, April has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). However, April experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 207 mm (8.1 in) over 14 days compared to January's 94 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. The humidity levels are relatively similar, at 79% for January and 76% for April. For a detailed look at April weather specifics, check out New Plymouth weather in April.

In January, temperatures in New Plymouth are typically warmer, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average high of 24°C (75°F), while May experiences cooler conditions, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is notably higher in May, totaling 195 mm (7.7 in) over 14 days, compared to January's 94 mm (3.7 in) over just 9 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with January at 79% and May slightly higher at 81%. For more detailed information, you can check New Plymouth weather in May.

In January, the weather is generally warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). Although January experiences some rainfall, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in) over about 9 days, the humidity level is moderate at 79%. In contrast, June presents cooler conditions with temperatures dropping significantly, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), and an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). Additionally, June sees increased precipitation, measuring 155 mm (6.1 in) across roughly 14 days, coupled with a slightly higher humidity at 83%. For a more detailed look at June's weather, check New Plymouth weather in June.

In January, the weather in New Plymouth is generally warmer, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F). The month sees around 94 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation spread over about 9 days, and the humidity is relatively comfortable at 79%. In contrast, July presents a much cooler climate, with average temperatures between 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of only 16°C (60°F). Additionally, July experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 224 mm (8.8 in) over approximately 18 days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 84%. For more detailed information about the weather in July, you can check New Plymouth weather in July.

In comparing the weather between January and August, there's a noticeable contrast in temperature and precipitation patterns. January boasts a milder climate with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), accompanied by 94 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 9 days and relatively high humidity at 79%. In stark contrast, August experiences cooler temperatures, with averages dipping to a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of only 15°C (59°F). Additionally, August is significantly wetter, receiving 214 mm (8.4 in) of rain across 19 days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 81%. For more details on the weather specifics in August, check out New Plymouth weather in August.

January and September showcase contrasting weather patterns that reflect the shift in seasons. In January, temperatures range from a mild 12°C (53°F) to a warm 24°C (75°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F), making it a comfortable summer month. Precipitation is relatively low at 94 mm (3.7 in) over about 9 days, and humidity sits at around 79%. In stark contrast, September experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), leading to an average of only 12°C (54°F). The month is significantly wetter, with precipitation reaching 173 mm (6.8 in) across 17 days, and humidity slightly increases to 80%. For a closer look at the specifics of September's weather, you can visit New Plymouth weather in September.

In January, the weather is generally warmer and more pleasant, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). However, it experiences around 94 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, with the humidity at 79%. In contrast, October brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F), averaging at 13°C (56°F). It also sees higher precipitation levels, totaling 141 mm (5.6 in) over about 16 days, along with a slightly higher humidity of 82%. For more detailed insights on October weather, visit New Plymouth weather in October.

January and November in New Plymouth present notable differences in weather patterns. January enjoys relatively warmer temperatures, with an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at 24°C (75°F), while November sees cooler averages of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation varies as well; January experiences 94 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days, whereas November is wetter, with 139 mm (5.5 in) spread across 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in November at 82%, compared to January's 79%. For more details on November's weather, visit New Plymouth weather in November.

In January, temperatures in New Plymouth generally feature a slightly higher range, with an average of 18°C (65°F) compared to December's average of 17°C (63°F). While both months experience mild conditions, January sees maximum temperatures peak at 24°C (75°F), slightly warmer than December's 22°C (72°F). Precipitation levels are notably lower in January, with 94 mm (3.7 in) recorded over 9 days, while December has a significantly higher total of 180 mm (7.1 in) over 14 days. The humidity remains fairly constant, with January at 79% and December at 80%. For more details on December’s weather, refer to New Plymouth weather in December.

Compare New Plymouth's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in New Plymouth

In January, New Plymouth basks in a delightful warm embrace, with temperatures reaching a pleasant peak compared to other months. The average warmth gives way to outdoor activities, yet the lingering humidity often adds a tropical touch. While rainfall is not uncommon, with precipitation occurring across several days, the overall vibe is cheerful, making it distinct from the cooler, dryer months of the year. For those looking to explore New Plymouth, the summer climate remains inviting and vibrant, setting it apart beautifully. Discover more about the area's weather throughout the year at New Plymouth Climate.