The climate of Napier
Napier, a vibrant coastal city in
New Zealand, boasts of a Marine west coast, warm summer climate, as classified by the Köppen system. This designation, represented as Cfb, signifies the influence of the ocean on Napier's climate pattern. Through the year, the city experiences moderate temperatures and significant rainfall, making the weather generally pleasant, albeit wet.
Looking at the weather parameters, there are subtle variations observed throughout the year. Temperature fluctuations fall within a comfortable range, with an average high temperature of 24.5°C (76.1°F) in
January and a low of 14.1°C (57.4°F) registered in
July. These swings in temperature display a consistent, seasonally dependent trend. Simultaneously, Napier receives a substantial amount of rainfall throughout the year, reaching its peak in July with 108mm (4.25"). Frequent rainy days are a characteristic trait of the city's climate, with the highest count observed again in July, registering 9.4 days.
Relative humidity fluctuates moderately over the year, from a minimum of 67% in
October to a maximum of 79.9% in
June. This humidity contributes to the moist aspect of the city’s climate. The sea temperature follows a similar seasonal cycle to the air temperature, with a high of 19.9°C (67.8°F) around
February and a low of 13.5°C (56.3°F) by
August. Furthermore, Napier experiences long daylight hours exceeding 14 hours in the warmer months and reducing to approximately 9.4 hours during winter. UV index also varies significantly throughout the year, with a peak in the summer months reaching 11 and dropping to 1 in winter.
The best time to visit Napier
The abundant sunshine hours and favorable temperatures from
December to
February render this period the most ideal time to visit
Napier. This period combines the warmest sea temperatures of 19.3°C (66.7°F) to 17.8°C (64°F) and long daylight hours extending from 14.3 hours to 11.1 hours, providing ample time to explore the city’s attractions. Visitors can enjoy an average high temperature from 20.9°C (69.6°F) to 24.5°C (76.1°F), with the humidity maintained at a relatively low level between 67% and 69.9%.
The worst time to visit Napier
Contrarily, the period from
June to
August may prove less inviting for visitors. This time of the year is characterized by higher rainfall levels, from 82mm (3.23") to 108mm (4.25"), with damp conditions prevailing over 8.8 to 9.4 days each month. Additionally, sea temperatures fall to their lowest, around 14°C (57.2°F) to 14.9°C (58.8°F), and the average high temperatures drop to 14.1°C (57.4°F) to 15°C (59°F), nuancing the appeal of outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Napier
Spring, stretching from
September to
November in
Napier, witnesses gradual warming temperatures, with averages ranging from 17.3°C (63.1°F) to 20.9°C (69.6°F), and lows inching up from 8.1°C (46.6°F) to 10.9°C (51.6°F). Rainfall does not see a drastic change, keeping between 52mm (2.05") to 60mm (2.36"). Sunny hours increase steadily from 6 hours to 7.2 hours, and daylight hours extend from 11.8 hours to 14.3 hours, allowing the blossoming city to sparkle under the extending daylight.
Summer weather in Napier
December to
February marks summer in
Napier. During this period, the city basks under abundant sunshine, boasting an average of 7.2 to 7.5 hours. Average temperatures hover around a comfortable range between 23.2°C (73.8°F) and 24.5°C (76.1°F). Despite being the warmest period of the year, rainfall levels remain moderately high, fluctuating from 47mm (1.85") to 54mm (2.13"), and the number of rainy days varies from 6 to 6.5 days.
Autumn weather in Napier
Autumn, occurring from
March to
May, witnesses a cool down in temperature, with the average highs ranging from 19.9°C (67.8°F) in March gradually dropping to 17.4°C (63.3°F) in May. Concurrently, sea temperatures fall from 19.3°C (66.7°F) to 16.5°C (61.7°F). Despite being cooler, this period continues to see high rainfall between 67mm (2.64") to 75mm (2.95") and an increased number of rainy days, from 7.1 to 7.9 days.
Winter weather in Napier
Winter descends on
Napier from
June to
August. This season sees the lowest temperatures, with averages in the range of 14.1°C (57.4°F) to 15°C (59°F). Night temperatures also dip to their lowest, at 5.6°C (42.1°F) to 6.8°C (44.2°F). Despite the chill, Napier experiences the most rain with volumes from 82mm (3.23") to 108mm (4.25"), spread across 8.8 to 9.4 days. Sunshine hours are lowest in these months, with only 4.3 to 4.4 hours.
Weather in January
In
January,
Napier holidaymakers can expect pleasing conditions. Prevailing outdoor conditions are favoured by a favourable surge in sunshine hours, which jumps to a favorable 8 hours per day. Higher sea temperatures at 19.3°C (66.7°F) also invite swimmers to venture off the coast.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Shifting into
February,
Napier's optimistic weather scenario reinforces the town's reputation as a fantastic summer getaway. The sea temperature continues to rise, encouraging water sports fans to flock to the area. The mercury levels start to drop slightly from those in
January, providing relief without compromising the summer charm.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As the autumn season begins in
March,
Napier's heat intensity starts to subside, and the rainfall pattern presents a distinctive shift. Cooler weather begins to surface, marking a transition from the hotter summer months of
January and
February.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Emerging into
April, the number of daylight hours decreases, and
Napier's weather starts to cool down significantly. Early signs of winter begin to emerge, as the air's moisture level increases. The rainfall pattern and humidity levels display an upward trend, proving it to be a wetter month than its predecessors.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Napier witnesses a significant shift in weather during
May, as the autumn glory subsides further to make way for winter heralds. Despite the transition, the city continues to charm visitors with its moderate daylight hours and still-affordable sea temperatures.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June honors the arrival of winter in
Napier, with its characteristic cold conditions. Shorter daylight hours are punctuated by increased humidity levels and more rainy days, drawing attention to the undeniable winter onset. Despite the chill, Napier remains a destination of choice for those seeking a winter retreat.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July keeps the winter momentum going in
Napier. Chilly nights become more prevalent, and the city's humidity continues its upward trajectory. Sandwiched between
June and
August, July justifies the mid-winter tag with the relative temperature range dropping from 5.6°C (42.1°F) to 14.1°C (57.4°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
Progressing into
August,
Napier begins the shift from peak winter conditions to early spring signs. As a harbinger of Spring, the temperature and daylight hours gradually increase, though rainfall remains significant. The shoreline casts a distinctive vibe with more frequent tides and a slight increase in sea temperature.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September sees
Napier in a delightful transition phase, greeting spring with open arms. The weather retains its charm with a noticeable increase in daylight and sunshine hours. Though the sea remains chilly, surfers are drawn to the ocean's waves, whilst the floral explosion elsewhere paints a picturesque landscape.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October,
Napier capitalizes on the ongoing spring vibes, presenting perfect conditions for outdoor enthusiasts. As the city eases into longer and warmer days, the unique kiwi spirit thrives. A growing daylight period coupled with moderately warm temperatures creates an inviting ambiance.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November affirms
Napier's eminent status as a premier springtime destination. The positive trend in temperature and daylight hours continues, though rainfall tends to increase slightly. There is a tangible excitement with the anticipation of summer just around the corner.
Weather in November » Weather in December
As the calendar turns to
December, the seasonal cycle completes with the baton being passed on to summer in
Napier. Heightened daylight hours perfectly complement the growing heat intensity. The noticeable climb in sea temperature draws crowds to the idyllic beaches once again.
Weather in December » [Resources]