Question 1

How much total rainfall does Auckland get per year?

Accepted Answer

Auckland receives approximately 1,008mm (39.7 inches) of rainfall per year, making it one of New Zealand's wetter cities with precipitation spread fairly evenly across all twelve months.

In 2024, Auckland averaged 84.0mm (3.3 inches) of rain per month, though monthly totals varied considerably throughout the year. July was the wettest month, recording 121.1mm (4.8 inches), while February was the driest with just 47.7mm (1.9 inches) of precipitation.

Seasonal patterns show that winter (June to August) brings the most rainfall to Auckland, with 288.8mm (11.4 inches) during those three months in 2024. The remaining seasons receive similar amounts: summer recorded 242.2mm (9.5 inches), autumn 236.6mm (9.3 inches), and spring 240.6mm (9.5 inches). This relatively even distribution means visitors to Auckland should expect some rain regardless of the season.

The city's high humidity levels, averaging 80.2% throughout 2024, contribute to the frequent precipitation. Auckland's maritime climate means rain often arrives as light showers rather than heavy downpours, and many days see a mix of sun and rain. For outdoor activities, carrying a light rain jacket is advisable year-round, though summer months from December to February typically offer the most reliably dry conditions.

Question 2

What is the sunniest month in Auckland?

Accepted Answer

December is the sunniest month in Auckland, recording 269.4 hours of sunshine in 2024. This translates to an average of 8.7 hours of sunshine per day during the peak of summer.

January follows closely as the second sunniest month, with 261.8 hours of sunshine. Together, the summer months (December, January, and February) averaged 258.4 hours of sunshine per month in 2024, providing Auckland with ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

In contrast, June recorded the least sunshine at just 140.3 hours, nearly half of what December received. The winter months (June, July, and August) averaged only 157.8 hours of sunshine per month.

During December 2024, Auckland enjoyed warm temperatures alongside the abundant sunshine, with averages of 18.7°C (65.7°F) and daytime highs reaching 24.0°C (75.2°F). However, December also brought 117.1mm (4.6 inches) of rainfall, so visitors should still expect occasional summer showers.

Auckland received a total of 2,394.6 hours of sunshine throughout 2024, averaging 199.6 hours per month. For those planning to visit Auckland and wanting the best weather for beaches, hiking, or outdoor dining, December and January offer the most reliable sunshine hours combined with comfortable summer temperatures.

Question 3

What was the hottest day in Auckland in 2024?

Accepted Answer

The hottest day in Auckland in 2024 was January 31, when temperatures reached 26.2°C (79.2°F). This peak occurred during a warm spell in late January, with the mean temperature for that day sitting at 21.9°C (71.4°F) and the overnight low remaining mild at 18.0°C (64.4°F).

Auckland experienced five days above 25°C (77°F) during 2024, all concentrated in the final two weeks of January. The top five hottest days were:

- January 31: 26.2°C (79.2°F)
- January 22: 25.9°C (78.6°F)
- January 21: 25.7°C (78.3°F)
- January 30: 25.3°C (77.5°F)
- January 28: 25.2°C (77.4°F)

For context, Auckland's annual temperature range in 2024 spanned from a low of 3.7°C (38.7°F) on July 4 to the peak of 26.2°C on January 31. The city's summer months (January, February, and December) averaged daily highs of 22.7°C (72.8°F), making Auckland's warmest days notably milder than many other destinations. These moderate summer temperatures, combined with Auckland's coastal location, make the city comfortable for outdoor activities even during the warmest periods of the year.

Question 4

How cold does Auckland get in winter?

Accepted Answer

Auckland experiences mild winter temperatures, with average daily temperatures of 12.1°C (53.7°F) during the winter months of June to August 2024. The city's subtropical climate keeps winter conditions relatively moderate compared to many other destinations.

During winter 2024, Auckland's average daily minimum temperature was 9.3°C (48.7°F), while daytime highs typically reached 14.9°C (58.7°F). July proved to be the coldest month, with an average temperature of 11.3°C (52.3°F). The coldest night of winter 2024 occurred on July 5, when temperatures dropped to just 3.7°C (38.7°F).

Despite the cooler conditions, Auckland rarely experiences severe cold. Only 4 days throughout winter 2024 saw minimum temperatures fall below 5°C (41°F), and frost is uncommon in the city centre due to its coastal location. However, 52 days recorded overnight minimums below 10°C (50°F), making warm layers advisable for early mornings and evenings.

Auckland's mild winter climate makes it suitable for year-round activities, though visitors should expect occasional rain and bring waterproof clothing. The moderate temperatures mean outdoor exploration remains comfortable, even during the coolest months of the year.

Question 5

What are the average wind speeds in Auckland throughout 2024?

Accepted Answer

Auckland experienced an average wind speed of 16.1 km/h (10.0 mph) throughout 2024, with noticeable seasonal variations across the year.

Spring proved to be Auckland's windiest season in 2024, averaging 17.7 km/h (11.0 mph) from September through November. September and October were particularly breezy, both recording 19.0 km/h (11.8 mph), making them the windiest months of the year. In contrast, summer was the calmest period, with average wind speeds of 14.6 km/h (9.1 mph) from December through February.

The monthly wind speed range in Auckland during 2024 varied from a low of 14.2 km/h (8.8 mph) in February to peaks of 19.0 km/h (11.8 mph) in both September and October. Autumn and winter showed moderate conditions, averaging 16.3 km/h (10.1 mph) and 16.0 km/h (10.0 mph) respectively.

For visitors and residents, these wind patterns mean that outdoor activities like sailing and kite flying are best enjoyed during the spring months when conditions are most favourable. Summer offers calmer weather ideal for beach visits and harbourside dining. Auckland's coastal location on an isthmus between two harbours contributes to its consistent breeze year-round, helping moderate temperatures and keeping the city comfortable even during warmer months.

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FAQ

How much total rainfall does Auckland get per year?

What is the sunniest month in Auckland?

What was the hottest day in Auckland in 2024?

How cold does Auckland get in winter?

What are the average wind speeds in Auckland throughout 2024?