Weather in Auckland in January

How January compares

January is the 2nd warmest month of the year in Auckland. Against London's average high of 7.4°C in January, Auckland is 14.6°C warmer by day and 14.3°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in January

The typical January day in Auckland peaks at 22.0°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 24.3°C or more. Roughly 1 in 20 days top 25°C. Nights average 16.5°C; one night in ten drops to 14.1°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest January day here reached 27.6°C (2008-01-18) and the coldest night 11.4°C (2003-01-15).

Rain in January

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 9 days with 1 mm or more, 68 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest January was 2011 with 294 mm, the driest 1998 with 9 mm. Humidity averages 76%.

Sea temperature in January

The sea averages 20.4°C - bracing (18-22°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 19.4°C to 21.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in February (21.2°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 6.0 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 14.3 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:18 and sets about 20:42 local time in mid-January. Average cloud cover is 58%.

Is January a good time to visit Auckland?

January is not the strongest month here: warm days and frequent rain. The best months for Auckland on our scoring are February, January, March.

Warm days without much extreme heat

January suits travellers who prefer comfortable summer warmth to hot weather. Days reaching 25°C account for just 5%, so do not choose Auckland expecting consistently hot afternoons. Light clothes are a sensible starting point, with a jumper or light jacket for evenings. The coldest 10% of nights fall to 14.1°C or lower, which makes an extra layer useful even during this warm part of the year. Humidity averages 76%, so the air may feel less fresh than the daytime temperature suggests. Keep midday plans flexible for your own comfort, but sustained extreme heat is not the main concern here.

Plan for rain, not a washed-out holiday

Rain is the main compromise in January, and a light waterproof deserves space in your bag. About 9 rainy days means you should not build the whole trip around dry weather, but it does not mean those days will be wet throughout. Keep outdoor plans movable rather than tied to a rigid schedule. There are about 6 hours of sunshine within 14.3 hours of daylight, so long days should not be mistaken for uninterrupted sun. That daylight gives you flexibility over when to head out. January works best if you can accept some cloud and rain alongside the warmth.

The sea is cooler than you might hope

Auckland's sea averages 20.4°C in January: bracing rather than comfortably warm. Swimming may appeal if you tolerate cool water, but warm air does not guarantee a gentle first dip. The year-to-year range is 19°C to 22°C, so even a January visit cannot promise the warmer end. If swimming is central to your holiday, that is a meaningful drawback; if it is an occasional extra, it need not rule the month out. Pack something dry to put on afterwards and judge the water for yourself. January is a stronger choice for general outdoor time than for travellers seeking reliably warm swimming.