Rotorua in December
December weather, climate averages, and packing tips.
December lands in the heart of summer in Rotorua, where the weather is warming up. Daytime highs average 20°C / 69°F, dropping to 13°C / 55°F at night.
Skies are often overcast, and you should be prepared for regular rainfall (approx. 17 wet days). Long days provide about 14.8 hours of light, giving you plenty of time for evening wandering.
How it compares to the rest of the year in Rotorua.
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
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Sunshine
- Daylight
- 14.8 hours
- UV index (max)
- 9
- Typical sun hours
- 05:47 – 20:32
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 17
- Cloud cover
- 67%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 79%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Rotorua?
Typical December days in Rotorua reach highs of 20°C (68°F) with nights around 13°C (55°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. It is among the wetter months, so it is wise to have some indoor backup plans or flexible activities.
What are temperatures like in December?
In December, you can usually expect highs of 20°C (68°F) and lows near 13°C (55°F). That means mild days and cool nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.
How much does it rain in December?
Rainfall in December averages 135 mm (5.3 in) across roughly 17 days. Overall it is a very wet time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in December?
You can expect about 15 hours of daylight in December. Sunrise is typically around 05:47 and sunset near 20:32. You get long days with comfortable amounts of daylight.
How strong is the sun in December?
UV levels frequently reach very high levels (around 9), so strong sun protection is essential, especially around midday.
Is it windy in December?
In December, average wind speeds are around 12 km/h (7 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 59 km/h (37 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.