Rotorua Weather and Climate
Photographer: Chris McLennan
(www.cmphoto.co.nz)
The Rotorua region has a relatively high altitude (290m/950ft) and enjoys a warm, temperate climate.
The warmest months are January, February and March, where the average temperature can reach 27°C (78°F), while the coolest months are June, July and August, where the minimum temperature ranges between 9°C-13°C (50°F-55°F).
Average High Temperature Ranges:
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Daytime 21°C – 29°C
- Autumn (Mar – May): Daytime 15°C – 26°C
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Daytime 9°C – 16°C
- Spring (Sep – Nov): Daytime 13°C– 21°C
Rotorua has an annual average of 2117 sunshine hours and an average annual rainfall of 1400mm. Rainfall is spread out throughout the year, with the winter months receiving slightly more.
Rotorua is situated inland from the coast and is sheltered by high country to the south and east, resulting in less wind than many other places in New Zealand.
When combined with a varied landscape of forests, mountains, geothermal activity, rivers and lakes, the mild climate of Rotorua makes the region a top travel destination throughout the year.
