Last updated: August 31, 2025
Hamilton, New Zealand, experiences a dynamic December, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), and an average of 19°C (66°F). This month signals the onset of summer, balancing warm days with refreshing evenings. Rain is a frequent guest, contributing 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over 13 days, fostering lush greenery in the region. With humidity levels hovering around 74%, residents and visitors alike can expect a humid but vibrant atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities amidst the beauty of nature.
December in Hamilton, New Zealand, ushers in the warmth of summer with temperatures that typically range from a mild 5°C (42°F) to a comfortable 27°C (81°F). The average temperature settles at a pleasant 19°C (66°F), creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and festive celebrations. This month marks a progression from the cooler spring temperatures, as the city transitions into the height of summer. With minimums gradually rising from the chill of earlier months, December's climate invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy the vibrant greenery and sunny days that characterize this beautiful region. The consistent warmth also sets the stage for long, enjoyable evenings, making it a perfect time to embrace the outdoor lifestyle that Hamilton has to offer.
In December, Hamilton, New Zealand, experiences a significant increase in precipitation, recording 112 mm (4.4 in) of rainfall over an average of 13 days. This total marks a continuation of the wetter trend observed in the second half of the year, as December's rainfall follows a substantial 131 mm (5.1 in) in July and peaks with 149 mm (5.9 in) in August. Compared to the milder months of January and November, which see 56 mm (2.2 in) and 87 mm (3.4 in) respectively, December's precipitation sets the stage for a lush summer landscape. As the year winds down, the consistent rain encapsulates the essence of Hamilton's temperate climate, making it a hallmark of the region's seasonal transitions.
December in Hamilton, New Zealand, sees a humidity level of 74%, reflecting a trend of relatively stable moisture throughout the year. As the calendar draws towards the end of the year, the humidity begins to dip slightly from the earlier summer months, following a peak in June and July at 82% and 81% respectively. The data shows a gentle decline during the spring months, where November registers at 75%, making December's figure consistent with this pattern of gradual decrease. Overall, Hamilton's humidity remains comfortably high, particularly compared to the drier winter months, creating a unique climate that contributes to its lush landscapes and vibrant greenery.
In December, Hamilton experiences a high UV Index of 13, placing it in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend follows a year characterized by fluctuating UV levels, peaking in January and February with the same extreme rating of 14. As the seasons transition, March sees a decline to a very high index of 10, but the UV intensity remains strong through November, which records an index of 11. While December marks a slight decrease from the early summer peaks, the risks associated with UV exposure remain significant, urging residents and visitors to exercise caution. For more information on Hamilton's UV index throughout the year, visit Hamilton UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Hamilton, New Zealand, basks in a glorious 329 hours of sunshine, marking the peak of the summer season. This delightful trend showcases a gradual increase in sunlight hours as the year draws to a close, following November's impressive 289 hours. After a gradual decline from the autumn months, where daylight dwindled to 203 hours in May, the sun returns with a vibrant glow. The consistency of increasing sunshine from October through December emphasizes Hamilton's transformation into a sun-soaked paradise, inviting residents and visitors alike to revel in the warmth and beauty of the outdoors during this festive month.
In Hamilton, New Zealand, December sees a 27% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the less favorable months for sunshine compared to the rest of the year. This figure represents a significant drop in sunlight opportunities, particularly when compared to January, which boasts the highest chance at 47%. As we move into the warmer months, the likelihood of clear skies typically rises, yet December does not quite follow this trend as it stands at the tail end of sunshine probabilities. Instead, it is more aligned with the grayer days of October and November, which linger around 25% to 37%. Those planning outdoor activities in December should keep this relatively lower chance of sun in mind, perhaps seeking alternative indoor options or being prepared for a bit of cloud cover.
As December rolls around in Hamilton, New Zealand, residents bask in 14 hours of daylight, mirroring the sun-drenched days experienced in January and November. This peak in daylight signifies the height of summer, with long, bright days encouraging outdoor activities and gatherings. Notably, the daylight duration gradually diminishes from March, when it begins at 12 hours, down to a minimum of 9 hours in the winter months of June and July. As the year progresses, the days lengthen again, with spring bringing a gentle increase back to 10 hours in August. This cyclical pattern of daylight underscores the seasonal shifts that define life in Hamilton, inviting residents to make the most of their luminous December days.
In Hamilton, New Zealand, December marks a noticeable increase in wind speed, averaging 3.8 m/s (9 mph), a jump from the gentler breezes of earlier months. This trend hints at the onset of summer, where winds begin to pick up, creating a lively atmosphere as the region gears up for the holiday season. While January boasts the same average wind speed, it's interesting to observe a gradual upward trajectory from September (4.3 m/s) through to August (3.9 m/s), showcasing how the winds can invigorate the warmest months of the year. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply basking in the sun, December's winds add an extra layer of freshness to Hamilton's vibrant summer landscape.
Weather in Hamilton varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Hamilton, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January in Hamilton showcase a gradual transition in weather characteristics. December experiences a mild range of temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). The month sees considerable rainfall, receiving 112 mm (4.4 in) over 13 days, resulting in a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, January offers slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Rainfall decreases significantly to 56 mm (2.2 in) across only 6 days, while humidity remains relatively steady at 75%. For more details about the weather in January, you can visit Hamilton weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, we can observe some notable differences. December typically sees a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F) and averages around 19°C (66°F), reaching a maximum of 27°C (81°F). It is also marked by higher precipitation, with 112 mm (4.4 in) falling over 13 days, contributing to a humidity level of 74%.
In contrast, February experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 20°C (68°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation is lower in February at 81 mm (3.2 in), with rain occurring on 9 days and humidity decreasing slightly to 73%. For a more detailed perspective on February's weather, you can check Hamilton weather in February.
When comparing the weather in December and March, both months showcase a warm climate, but with some notable differences. December typically presents a slightly wider temperature range, with minimums around 5°C (42°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (81°F), while March sees minimums of 7°C (45°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is a bit higher in December, with 112 mm (4.4 in) spread across 13 days, compared to March's 94 mm (3.7 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent between the two months, with December at 74% and March slightly lower at 73%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can visit Hamilton weather in March.
In December, the weather tends to be warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while April sees slightly cooler temperatures, averaging between 4°C (39°F) and 24°C (75°F). Both months exhibit considerable precipitation, with December receiving about 112 mm (4.4 in) over 13 days, compared to April's 117 mm (4.6 in) over just 11 days. Humidity levels remain similar in both months, with December at 74% and April at 73%. If you're looking for more detailed insights into weather patterns during April, you can check out Hamilton weather in April.
December weather is generally warmer than May, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 112 mm (4.4 in) over 13 days and May slightly less at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days. However, May has a higher humidity level at 79%, compared to December's 74%. For more detailed information about the weather in May, you can visit Hamilton weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a mild 5°C (42°F) to a warm 27°C (81°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F). The month experiences around 112 mm (4.4 in) of rainfall across 13 days, resulting in a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, June sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). Rainfall is slightly less at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, but the humidity is higher at 81%. For more detailed insights, check out Hamilton weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it’s evident that December tends to be much warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). In contrast, July's temperatures are significantly cooler, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in July at 131 mm (5.1 in) compared to December's 112 mm (4.4 in), although both months experience rain on approximately 13 days. Furthermore, the humidity levels are higher in July at 82% compared to December's 74%. For a closer look at Hamilton's summer weather, you can visit Hamilton weather in July.
December and August weather in Hamilton present a stark contrast, highlighting the seasonal differences. December enjoys milder temperatures, with an average high of 27°C compared to August’s peak of only 18°C. While December has a comfortable average of 19°C, August sees cooler nights with temperatures dipping as low as -4°C. Precipitation is slightly higher in August, with 149 mm over 16 days, compared to December’s 112 mm over 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are quite similar, with August at 79% and December at 74%. For more detailed insights, check out Hamilton weather in August.
In December, the weather is generally warmer than in September, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), compared to September's range of 0°C (32°F) to 20°C (68°F). While both months experience considerable precipitation, December has slightly less with 112 mm (4.4 in) over 13 days, versus September’s 119 mm (4.7 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels are also marginally lower in December at 74%, compared to September's 77%. For more details on weather conditions during September, you can visit Hamilton weather in September.
In December, the weather in Hamilton is generally warmer than in October, with average daily temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with averages between 3°C (37°F) and 22°C (72°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 112 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 13 days, while October has slightly less at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels are relatively close, with December at 74% and October slightly higher at 76%. For more detailed insights, check the Hamilton weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures reaching 19°C (66°F) compared to November's average of 16°C (62°F). While both months experience maximum temperatures of 27°C (81°F), December's minimum temperature is a bit cooler at 5°C (42°F) compared to November's 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in December, with 112 mm (4.4 in) over 13 days, whereas November sees less with 87 mm (3.4 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with December at 74% and November at 75%. For more detailed insights on November's weather, you can check Hamilton weather in November.
As December unfolds in Hamilton, the weather showcases a delightful shift towards warmer temperatures and increased humidity, creating a vibrant atmosphere for both residents and visitors. With a pleasant average of around 19°C, this month contrasts sharply with the cooler winter months, inviting outdoor activities and festive gatherings. However, the occasional rain—spanning about 13 days—adds a refreshing touch to the lush landscapes, making it the wettest month of the year. For a deeper understanding of Hamilton's unique climatic conditions throughout the year, explore the full details at Hamilton Climate.