What's the Weather Like in Auckland in January
Auckland is situated on two large bays on New Zealand's North Island. With a population of nearly 1.5 million people, it is the most populous city in New Zealand. Its location near the water and growing population means there are plenty of cultural events, outdoor activities and attractions to entertain visitors to Auckland. Better yet, January is the height of summer in the Southern Hemisphere and the warm, sunny days make this a particularly good time to visit the city.
Temperature
While January is summer in Auckland, the temperature normally remains temperate and comfortable. The average temperature for the month is only 20°C (68°F). Overnight the average low temperature can drop to a cool 17°C (63°F), and most visitors will want layers or a jacket to enjoy meals outdoors or certain outdoor activities.
Certain afternoons can be hot and perfect for swimming or exploring the waterfalls just outside the city. However, the average high temperature for the month is only 23°C (73°F), which is better suited for hiking or sightseeing. Luckily, there are plenty of options in Auckland.
Sea Temperature
The bay water around Auckland is also warm during this summer month. The average sea temperature is 18°C (64°F) in December, but rises to 20°C (68°F) in January.
Sunshine
Days during the month of January are often sunny, with an average of 8 hours of sunlight per day, compared to 7 hours of daily sunlight in February and just 6 hours in March. The increased sunlight means January is not only the hottest month of the year, but also the sunniest.
Rain
Compared to other holiday destinations, Auckland receives a steady amount of rain each year. Visitors can expect that a couple days will have rain showers or be cloudy, as each month has around 15 rainy days. Like the other summer months of December and February, January receives relatively little rain. The monthly average is 30 mm of rain falling over 12 rainy days on average.
Hotels for Auckland in January
January is the perfect time of year to flee the city center for some time on the beach and waterfront. Conveniently, Waiheke Island is just outside Auckland and a simple ferry trip away from the city center.
The Boatshed
Located on Waiheke and situated minutes from the island's ferry terminal and the beach is the picture-perfect The Boatshed hotel. As the summer days heat up, float away on the sweeping ocean views and sink into the incredibly comfortable guestrooms. The Boatshed is a great combination of luxury accommodation with a laidback atmosphere. With only 5 guestrooms and 2 bungalows, The Boatshed is able to provide attentive and personalised service.
Okura River Estate
The accommodation options in Auckland range from seaside to riverside to city center and everything in between. Okura River Estate is another option for those hoping to escape the city center when the weather is nice. This upscale bed and breakfast is set on a 9-acre property along the Okura River. The rural location is serene, but Okura River Estate is located just 18 kilometers from the Auckland Harbour, which makes it a great accommodation option for visitors who want to balance serenity and city exploration.
Bamber House
Visitors on a budget will appreciate the neighborhood location of Bamber House. This backpackers hostel is located in Mt Eden, which overlooks central Auckland and is close enough to explore all the city's attractions. Bamber House was once a single-family home and the welcoming, family-like vibe still persists. The friendly owners and hostel staff truly want to provide backpackers and other travelers with a place that feels like home.
Beaches for January for Auckland
Orewa Beach
The 3 kilometer long and absolutely stunning Orewa Beach is certainly one of Auckland's best. In fact the impressive and rugged stretch of sand is one of the best beaches in New Zealand, an island country known for its coastline. If there is one beach "not to miss" while on a summer holiday to Auckland, it is Orewa.
Go for a jog, stay for a swim or learn to kite surf, no matter what type of activity you enjoy, it is possible to spend an entire day on the sand and enjoying the surf here. There are amenities, such as cafes and a playground nearby, and the whole family should enjoy the sun-soaked day.
Restaurants and Bars for Auckland in January
Viaduct Harbour
January's warm weather brings more life to the busy Viaduct Harbour in central Auckland. In addition to the watercrafts, Viaduct Harbour is also known as the entertainment hub of Auckland. There is no better time of year for visitors to settle into one of the popular restaurants or bars in the area.
Soul Bar
One of the best is Soul Bar. Soul serves up great food from brunch through to dinner, and plies Auckland's locals and visitors with great cocktails. The menu centers on a raw bar and seafood, but there are salads and pastas to please any crowd. Capture one of Auckland's stunning sunsets from Soul's terrace or stay late for the DJs on Friday and Saturday nights.
Oyster & Chop
Also located in Viaduct Harbour is Oyster & Chop. The restaurant boasts the best oyster bar in Auckland, but as the name would suggest serves surf and turf in winning combinations. The restaurant offers great views of the harbor, and the casual décor encourages visitors to sit back, relax and enjoy a great meal.
The Oyster Inn
For visitors staying out on Waiheke Island or on a day trip from central Auckland, there are plenty of seafood, fish and oyster options on the island, but The Oyster Inn stands out for its chic interior but laidback vibe. The Oyster Inn is located a mere 3 minutes from the beach and serves accessible, delicious food all day that is perfect after a day at the beach or around Waiheke. The owners also have an attached shop and small hotel.
Things to Do in Auckland in January
Auckland Seafood Festival
Locals and visitors alike flock to the Auckland Seafood Festival, which takes place at the end of January. In years past, the event has taken place in Hasley Wharf in central Auckland, a location that offers great views of Waitemata Harbour. There is plenty of seafood to eat, demonstrations to watch, beer to drink and live music to listen and dance to. The
Auckland Seafood Festival lasts all weekend long in conjunction with Auckland Anniversary Weekend, and is a true celebration of the delicious food that comes from the sea.
Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta
As Auckland Anniversary Day, which takes place at the end of January or beginning of February, is a public holiday across the city, there are a number of other events to entertain and delight visitors and locals. At the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta spectators can see a number of watercraft races and events from vantage points across the city.
