December Weather in Otaki, New Zealand

Last updated: August 31, 2025

December in Otaki, New Zealand is characterized by a mild climate with maximum temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). As the month unfolds, temperatures can dip to a minimum of 5°C (41°F), offering cool relief during the warmer days. However, December is also marked by significant rainfall, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) across approximately 17 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 75%. This unique blend of warmth and moisture sets the stage for lush landscapes and vibrant flora, making it a picturesque time to experience Otaki’s natural beauty.

December Temperature in Otaki

In December, Otaki, New Zealand, experiences a delightful transition into summer, characterized by mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The minimum temperature settles around 5°C (41°F), while the average soars to 15°C (60°F), reaching a pleasant maximum of 23°C (74°F). This marks a gradual warming trend from the cooler months prior, with December being noticeably more inviting than the earlier springtime temperatures. As the year winds down, the air is filled with the promise of festive outdoor activities, making it an ideal time for visitors and locals alike to enjoy the beauty of Otaki in full bloom.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Otaki, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Otaki, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec626259555249474849525660
Data source: Temperature data for Otaki 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 Otaki

In December, Otaki, New Zealand, experiences a notable spike in precipitation, with 194 mm (7.6 in) recorded, marking it as the wettest month of the year. This increase is accompanied by 17 rainy days, contributing to a festive yet damp end to the year. The rainfall tends to elevate as summer approaches, following a pattern of generally rising precipitation from the earlier months. The trend reflects a transition into the warmer season, where the lush landscapes come alive, thriving amidst the generous showers that characterize this time. Overall, December serves as a culmination of Otaki’s wetter months, blending abundant rainfall with the colors and vibrancy of summer.

December Precipitation Trends in Otaki

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Otaki, 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 Otaki, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec98109107157129131169164175141142194
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Otaki

In December, Otaki, New Zealand experiences a dip in humidity, settling at 75%, a level consistent with the trend seen earlier in the year. This marks a notable decrease from the higher humidity peaks during the colder months of May and June, which recorded 82% and 83% respectively. Interestingly, December's humidity mirrors that of January and March, suggesting a return to more moderate conditions as summer approaches. The humidity levels generally rise from late autumn into winter, peaking mid-year, before tapering off again as spring nears. This cyclical pattern not only shapes the climate but also contributes to Otaki's distinctive seasonal character, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the varied yet familiar weather.

December Average Humidity in Otaki

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Otaki, 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 Otaki is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec75%76%76%77%82%83%84%81%80%79%78%75%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Otaki

In Otaki, New Zealand, December marks the return of extreme sun exposure, with a UV Index soaring to 13 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues from the previous two months of January and February, where vigilance against UV rays is crucial. As summer approaches, residents and visitors alike should prepare for intense sunlight, as the UV Index remains one of the highest recorded throughout the year. In the months leading up to December, the Index gradually declines from October’s 9 to November’s 10, only to jump back up again, emphasizing the importance of sun safety during this peak season. For more information on protecting yourself from UV radiation, visit Otaki UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Otaki for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Otaki 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 Otaki typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1313974224691013
Data source: Otaki 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 Otaki

In the heart of December, Otaki, New Zealand, shines with an impressive 315 hours of sunshine, marking the peak of the year for this charming coastal town. As the days stretch longer and summer arrives, sunshine hours soar, reflecting a delightful trend of increasing luminosity from the cooler months. After a gradual decline from a high of 268 hours in January, the levels begin to climb again, reaching a remarkable peak in late spring and early summer. The contrast is striking, with December enjoying a whopping 53 hours more sunshine than May, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures and coastal escapades. With each passing month, the sunshine in Otaki paints a vibrant picture of the natural beauty and warm spirit characteristic of New Zealand’s summer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Otaki: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Otaki 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec268h278h260h225h196h156h184h214h237h267h294h315h
Data source: Otaki December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Otaki During December

In Otaki, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather in December rests at 26%, marking a notable dip as the year winds down. This trend of decreasing sunshine hours becomes particularly apparent when comparing December's stats to the sunnier months earlier in the year, such as February, which boasts a 47% chance of sun. As temperatures cool and the festive season approaches, December's weather can feel a bit overcast, following a generally diminishing pattern from the spring months. While it's a time of holiday cheer, outdoor plans might need a backup as the sun takes a step back, making it the second-lowest chance of sun in the latter half of the year after June's 22%.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Otaki

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Otaki 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 Otaki experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec43%47%43%42%35%22%39%37%36%19%32%26%
Data source: Otaki December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Otaki in December

In December, Otaki, New Zealand, enjoys a generous 15 hours of daylight, marking the peak of the summer season. This increase in daylight is part of a gradual progression that begins in the depths of winter, where daylight lasts only 9 hours in June, July, and August. As the year unfolds, the days grow longer, bringing 14 hours in both November and January, while February and March see a slight dip to 13 and 12 hours, respectively. This rhythm of light underscores Otaki's vibrant seasonal transitions, with December shining as a bright centerpiece in the tapestry of the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Otaki for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Otaki throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 41m13h 38m12h 19m10h 58m9h 51m9h 17m9h 34m10h 32m11h 49m13h 9m14h 22m15h
Data source: Otaki daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Otaki

In December, Otaki, New Zealand, experiences a pleasant average wind speed of 4.3 m/s (10 mph), echoing the slightly higher winds of the previous month. As the year winds down, a noticeable trend emerges: the wind speeds tend to fluctuate between 3.1 and 5.3 m/s, with September peaking at a breezy 5.3 m/s (12 mph), making it the windiest month. Interestingly, the transition from late spring to early summer sees a gradual increase in wind consistency, providing refreshing breezes that complement the warm weather. December's winds are not just a backdrop; they enhance the holiday atmosphere, inviting outdoor activities and coastal adventures, making it a delightful time in Otaki.

Average December Wind Speed in Otaki

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Otaki, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.43.13.53.84.24.13.94.55.34.04.64.3 m/s
Data source: Otaki December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Otaki Compares to Other Months

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

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and averages around 15°C (60°F), with a maximum temperature reaching 23°C (74°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over approximately 17 days, alongside a consistent humidity level of 75%. In contrast, January sees a slight increase in temperature, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 16°C (62°F), and a maximum hitting 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is notably lower in January at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, while humidity remains steady at 75%. For more detailed insights about January's climate, you can check Otaki weather in January.

December and February both showcase relatively mild weather, but there are notable differences between the two months. December experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 15°C (60°F). It also has higher precipitation, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) across 17 days, resulting in a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, February sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a peak of 25°C (78°F), averaging 17°C (62°F). Precipitation is also lower in February at 109 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, maintaining a similar humidity level of 76%. For more detailed insights, you can check Otaki weather in February.

In December, the weather features mild temperatures with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), while the average temperature remains at 15°C (60°F). This month experiences a higher level of precipitation, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over about 17 days, along with a consistent humidity of 75%. In contrast, March sees slightly warmer minimum temperatures at 6°C (44°F) while maintaining the same maximum and average temperatures as December. However, precipitation drops significantly to 107 mm (4.2 in) over 13 days, yet the humidity remains unchanged at 75%. For more detailed information, you can visit Otaki weather in March.

December and April present distinct weather patterns, with December typically feeling warmer and wetter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging around 15°C (60°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, with 194 mm (7.6 in) spread over 17 days and a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, April sees slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums of 5°C (40°F) and maximums of 21°C (71°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). Rainfall decreases to 157 mm (6.2 in) over 15 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 77%. For more details, check out Otaki weather in April.

In December, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). Precipitation is quite high during this month, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 17 rainy days, and the humidity sits at a comfortable 75%. In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). While precipitation is lower in May at 129 mm (5.1 in) spread across 13 days, the humidity tends to be slightly higher at 82%. For more details about the weather in May, visit Otaki weather in May.

In December, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with 194 mm (7.6 in) spread over 17 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, June is cooler, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and peaking at 16°C (62°F), averaging around 9°C (49°F). Although June sees less rainfall, with 131 mm (5.2 in) over 13 days, the humidity is slightly higher at 83%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Otaki weather in June.

In December, temperatures in Otaki are generally milder, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F), reaching a maximum of 23°C (74°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation levels, averaging 194 mm (7.6 in) over 17 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. Conversely, July brings cooler weather with a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), with maximum temperatures only reaching 14°C (58°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 169 mm (6.6 in) over 16 days, but humidity is higher at 83%. For more detailed information about weather conditions in July, check Otaki weather in July.

December and August present contrasting weather patterns, with December enjoying warmer temperatures and slightly higher precipitation. In December, the average temperature ranges from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), while August sees cooler conditions, with temperatures averaging between 0°C (33°F) and 15°C (59°F). Although both months experience rainfall on about 17 days, December's total precipitation is higher at 194 mm (7.6 in) compared to August's 164 mm (6.5 in). Additionally, humidity levels are slightly elevated in August at 81%, compared to 75% in December. For more detailed information about August weather in Otaki, you can refer to Otaki weather in August.

In comparing the weather of December and September, December tends to be warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), while September experiences cooler temperatures with a range from 2°C (35°F) to 16°C (61°F). Additionally, December has a slightly higher average precipitation at 194 mm (7.6 in) over 17 days, compared to September's 175 mm (6.9 in) over 18 days. The humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 75% and September slightly higher at 80%. For more insights on September weather, you can visit Otaki weather in September.

In comparing the weather between October and December, we see a noticeable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. December boasts milder temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), while October's temperatures are slightly cooler, with an average of 3°C (37°F) to 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels are higher in December, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 17 days, compared to October's 141 mm (5.5 in) over 19 days. Additionally, humidity in December sits at 75%, slightly lower than October's 79%. For more detailed information about October's weather patterns, visit Otaki weather in October.

In December, the weather shows a slight warming trend compared to November, with average temperatures rising from 13°C (56°F) in November to 15°C (60°F). The minimum and maximum temperatures also reflect this increase, with December reaching a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), compared to November's range of 6°C (42°F) to 21°C (70°F). However, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 17 days, contrasting with November's 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days. The humidity levels are somewhat comparable, with December averaging 75% and November at 78%. For a deeper dive into the November weather specifics, you can check out Otaki weather in November.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Otaki

In December, Otaki experiences a noteworthy shift in its weather patterns as summer approaches. With warmer temperatures peaking at 23°C and a comfortable average of 15°C, the days begin to feel more lively. This month also sees a significant increase in precipitation, with about 194 mm falling over 17 days, adding a refreshing twist to the summer atmosphere. The humidity lingers at 75%, creating a tropical feel that contrasts with the drier, cooler months earlier in the year. Overall, December's weather sets the stage for vibrant outdoor activities, making it a unique time to explore the beauty of Otaki. For more detailed insights into the local climate, visit Otaki Climate.