Weather reports from May 2018 in Queenstown, New Zealand with highs and lows As the last month of autumn, going into winter, expect temperatures to start dropping throughout the month of May. Showing: All Year January February March April May June July August September October November December All Year Climate & Weather … Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser. Compared to other autumn months (and even some winter months), May is a wetter month to be in New Zealand. We offer predictions for all locations from New Zealand. Although the weather in May is cooler than in the earlier autumn months, there is still a great choice of outdoor activities to enjoy. Video will play in. The average minimum temperature (usually the minimum temperature is noted during the night) in Christchurch in May is 3.0°C (37.4°F). You’ll find warmer weather in the northern North Island, northern South Island and along the east coast with temperatures still reaching as high as 18-21C. Long, sunny days tend to linger long into New Zealand’s autumn, and with average high temperatures of between 18 degrees Celcius (°C) and 25 °C, you’ll hardly notice summer has ‘officially’ ended.Nights begin to get chilly around mid-April. the highest recorded Temperature was 12°C, the lowest being 3°C … Maori history and culture are part of New Zealand's identity. NZ is home to stunning golf courses set in incredible locations of natural landscapes. Christchurch Weather in May. The tables give the month's long-term historical averages for maximum and minimum temperatures, in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit, based on weather data collected from 1981 to 2010. The average maximum temperature lies around 14.0°C (57.2°F). Its my first time in New Zealand, I'm 25, female, traveling alone.Not planning on camping or going on multi day tramps, but still would like to enjoy the outdoors with some easy walks, sightseeing, scenary, etc. New Zealand temperatures & weather in May. Get the latest coronavirus (COVID-19) updates for New Zealand with current travel advice, statistics and online resources.. Below are average maximum temperatures at popular destinations in New Zealand in April. by april, fronts come through, but it gets warm again after the front. So to help you prepare for your trip in May, we’ve put together this quick guide to the New Zealand weather in May. Weather conditions vary from wet (on the West Coast of the South Island) to almost semi-arid (in Central Ontago, Central Canterbury) and subtropical in Northland. New Zealand Weather in May. May is when it starts to get a little chilly in New Zealand. Temperature In May, the average high-temperature is almost the same as in April - an enjoyable 17.7°C (63.9°F). Possum-Merino Wool – Clothing made from possum-merino is a blend of possum fur and merino wool and is incredibly soft, light and very warm. Weather in Rotorua in may 2021. Temperature . However, expect less sunny clear days than previous months and even a chance of snow in the mountainous regions. A wide range of possum-merino clothing can be purchased in New Zealand. By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it. Most cities receive between 620 mm or 24 in (as in Christchurch) and 1,317 mm or 51.9 in of precipitation annually. While the far north has subtropical weather during summer, and inland alpine areas of the South Island can be as cold as -10°C (14°F) in winter, most of the country lies close to the coast, which means mild temperatures. It’s a great place to escape the cold and take on the many cycle trails around the area. Welcome/Kia Ora! at some time during May, one front will come through and it fails to get warm afterward. If you would prefer to enjoy sunny days, but with fewer crowds, the best time to go to New Zealand is in autumn. Find out: where to expect 'four seasons in one day', where to find New Zealand's semi-tropical regions, which city is the sunniest, where to experience the most rainfall and discover which city is the country's windiest. Even in May, the snow can start falling, Before doing any long hikes, check for track updates on the. New Zealand weather averages and temperatures for May; Location Avg temp (°C °F) Max temp (°C °F) Min temp (°C °F) Rainfall (mm) Sunshine (hrs) Abel Tasman National Park: 13 °C 55.4 °F: 13.3 55.9: 3.6 38.5: By April, the weather starts to get noticeably cooler in New Zealand as the autumn days get shorter. Winter is during June, July and August. This a popular season among travelers, as the weather is ideal for everything from hiking to beachgoing to surfing. Check out the range of adrenaline, adventure or relaxing activities in New Zealand. NZ has excellent ski and snowboarding options for a range of abilities on many skifields. Bathe in your own sandy hot pool at Hot Water Beach, see Cathedral Cove and explore Kauri forests. Spring is in September, October and November. Select a destination to see more weather parameters. New Zealand's summer spans from December through February. February may be the last month of summer, but it is also typically when temperatures are at their highest. There's no better way to beat the chilly May weather than in a pair of sheepskin boots or slippers. For more information on the seasons, check out The New Zealand Seasons and Climate. Consider visiting North Island in the months of January, February, March, December, for the best beach weather.Also consider one of our other suggestions for May. The weather in Rotorua in the month of may comes from statistical datas on the past years. The average New Zealand temperature decreases as you travel south. 5 Nov, 2020 01:30 AM 5 minutes to read. In the North Island, generally the slightly warmer of the two main islands, temperatures in May can drop to 9-11°C even in the Bay of Islands. MetService is New Zealand’s national weather authority, providing accurate urban and … Dunedin – the South Island city has a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities so staying there a while means that you’ll always find something to do! As the last month of autumn, going into winter, May is a time to wear a jacket and some thermals if you are off doing outdoor activities. May is a “low season” for New Zealand tourism meaning that fewer people choose to travel in May, mainly because it is a colder month in New Zealand. Pack some warm clothing, as nighttime temperatures can drop to about -2C in some places. Information about Travel insurance for people visiting, working or settling in New Zealand. If you don't have much cool weather clothing, then an easy solution is to buy what the New Zealand locals are wearing. The climate in New Zealand in may ranges from good to bad depending on the region and city. For more things to pack, make sure you check out our 15 Essentials to Pack for New Zealand. Add these essentials to your packing list for a trip to New Zealand in May. It's shoulder season, and some of the most popular destinations remain busy, but some of the more outdoorsy attractions see far fewer visitors than in the summer. May is a “low season” for New Zealand tourism meaning that fewer people choose to travel in May, mainly because it is a colder month in New Zealand. New Zealand Town and City weather forecasts, maps, rain radar and current conditions. New Zealand weather in April 2021. Over 5,000 NZ events listed - find an event anywhere in the country. You can view the weather statistics the entire month, but also by clicking on the tabs for the beginning, the middle and the end of the month. The season is punctuated by long, sunny days and warm temperatures, with cooler nights. Based on weather reports collected during 1985–2015. A wide range of popular and useful New Zealand travel books. Polypropylene/Thermals – Clothes made from polypropylene (or polypro) are especially popular with hikers. Then May is the perfect time to travel in New Zealand. Select a destination to see more weather parameters. Get the monthly weather forecast for Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand, including daily high/low, historical averages, to help you plan ahead. This type of clothing is made from an easy care, fast drying fabric that draws sweat away from the skin and provides lightweight warmth. But, as they say in New Zealand: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. Want to avoid the tourist crowds, travel more spontaneously by not having to book too far in advance, and even save heaps of money on your travels? The Langham, Auckland is a classically beautiful hotel with 411 guestrooms. Between May and September, the 'cold weather' months in New Zealand, you will need warm clothing for the days, evenings and nights. Look no further. Make your trip easier and buy a detailed New Zealand map. By this time in autumn, the autumn colours will start to fade so just a heads up, May is not usually a good time to experience “autumn landscapes”. The largest range of escorted & small group tours, Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday. Cross Cook Strait and enjoy Kiwi hospitality. Gay marriage has helped pave the way for rainbow tourism in New Zealand. New Zealand has a temperate maritime climate. The weather also starts to get more inconsistent so prepare for rain at any time. For events to stick on your May itinerary, check out New Zealand in May. However, April is also known for its lack of wind, lack of rain and its long, fine spells. What's the weather like in Christchurch, New Zealand in May 2021? to ,e that is the beginning of winter. In Wellington, New Zealand, the average seawater temperature in May is 14.7°C (58.5°F).At temperatures below 10°C (50°F), swimming in a suitably protected swimsuit is feasible; otherwise, cold shock and loss of breathing control are imminent. Finally, it’s back to autumn in March, April and May. The weather makes travellers' packing a little heavier, as summer-weight as well as warmer clothing is needed. On the South Island, the temperature can quite easily drop to 6°C. By using this website you agree to our, Advertise your business on New Zealand's most popular travel guide, 5 Places to Visit in Autumn in New Zealand, Month-By-Month Guide to the Best Places to Visit in New Zealand, What You Need to Know About Toll Roads in New Zealand, 6 Essential Must-Dos Before Moving to New Zealand, The Girls’ Guide to Backpacking in New Zealand, Be prepared for “four seasons in a day” by carrying a day pack with you when you’re out and about carrying extra layers and a rain jacket. It’s likely you’ll experience rain at some point during your trip. Autumn in New Zealand is a time of spectacular changes in colours, with vivid russet browns, reds and golden leaves. This is especially the case in Wanaka and the Otago region of New Zealand in the South Island; or Hawkes Bay in New Zealand's North Island. Experience it. the weather is cooling off already. Although the weather in May is cooler than in the earlier autumn months, there is still a great choice of outdoor activities to enjoy. Our overview of New Zealand's typical weather by month can help you plan your holiday, unmissable highlights for the month (e.g. Simply wrap up warm and enjoy: When you visit New Zealand in May, it is best to pack lots of layers, so you can adapt to changes in outdoor and indoor temperatures. Coromandel – see one of New Zealand’s most popular beach destinations at its quietest time. Of the largest cities, Auckland is the wettest and Christchurch is the driest. Here are some destinations to add to your May itinerary! Before or after visiting NZ, a DVD helps you experience the country. May Weather. Waitomo – whatever the weather, there are cave tours available to see vast displays of glowworms and to go caving in awesome limestone caves! Discover the places and experiences that come alive during March, April and May. As the weather continues to grow crisp and rainy, hunker down in one of Auckland's nicest hotels. New Zealand weather in May 2021. On average. Average Weather during May in Christchurch (Canterbury), New Zealand. New Zealand weather in autumn. March to May are New Zealand’s autumn months. May is considered a “low season” for tourism so it’s a great time to look for deals and don’t worry about activities, accommodation or transport being fully booked. New Zealand is not located in the path of cyclones, but once in a while, a tropical cyclone, usually weakened, may reach these latitudes, usually affecting the North Island and the northernmost part of the South Island, bringing rain, wind, and storm surges. Contact – Disclaimer, Welcome/Kia Ora! But, as they say in New Zealand: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. ©2020 New Zealand Tourism Guide. Fleeces – It's hard to find a New Zealander who doesn't own a fleece jacket or bodywarmer. Sheepskin – Not just practical, but a great souvenir from New Zealand. events and festivals), sightseeing and activities and even your packing. May is the last season of autumn before going into winter. Need a self drive, sightseeing or ski holiday package? You can jump to a separate table for places on the North Island and South Island.. Each place has a total for how many days of wet weather it usually gets a year and for the normal amount of precipitation. Summer is throughout December, January and February. Summer in New Zealand . The average low-temperature, in Auckland, is 10.3°C (50.5°F). The Langham. The New Zealand Cycle Trail covers the country from head to toe. Be prepared with the most accurate 10-day forecast for Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand with highs, lows, chance of precipitation from The Weather Channel and Weather.com Alexandra – the Central Otago, South Island town experiences amazing weather year-round. Merino Clothing – Although expensive, merino clothing is popular in New Zealand and prized for its softness, comfort and warmth. Practical, hard-wearing and warm, fleece clothing is great for everyday warmth, outdoor sports and hiking. While temperatures are a little cooler than summer, the weather can be excellent, and it is possible to swim in some places until April. Privacy | Disclaimer | Sitemap. But do be warned – these are not weather forecasts, so expect some of the unexpected during your stay! New Zealand in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More May is the last month of autumn in New Zealand, and weather can range from pleasantly warm to quite wintry, depending on where you go. May is a cold and slightly rainy time for sunbathing in North Island and not really recommended. Between May and September, the 'cold weather' months in New Zealand, you will need warm clothing for the days, evenings and nights. If driving to some of the more mountainous regions such as inland South Island, check the weather and consider hiring snow chains. Travel insurance for independent travellers. May is a little too cold to enjoy swimming in North Island for any length of time. The climate in Christchurch during May can be summarized as cool and reasonably dry. Take a look at the 10 Essential New Zealand Travel Tips for more tips! The last month of the autumn, May, is also an enjoyable month in Auckland, New Zealand, with average temperature ranging between max 17.7°C (63.9°F) and min 10.3°C (50.5°F). While New Zealand’s native flora is evergreen, there are many introduced deciduous trees. Planning on visiting both islands for a month, mid May to mid June, is this a bad time to go, as its late Fall/early Winter? The Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited (MetService), established as a state-owned enterprise in 1992, issues weather forecasts and official weather warnings.. Rainfall. Then May is the perfect time to travel in New Zealand. You can jump to a separate table for places on the North Island and South Island.. (Just remember your luggage allowance when you're packing up to leave for home again!). warning in may the weather varied depending on the city and regions of the country. Check out the wildlife of the Otago Peninsula, visit Tunnel Beach or experience the bars and eateries of The Octagon in the city centre. Although it is not perfect the weather in New Zealand in may is, on average, quite good in Tauranga and Auckland. Buy Kiwiana and other New Zealand products quickly and easily. May is a time to prepare for any weather scenario with warm clothing and rain gear. I allows to appreciate tour in these cities. It is available online and in stores throughout New Zealand, (which generally are well-stocked in time for May's cooler weather). New Zealand has 14 National Parks aimed at protecting nature for the future. For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. Wellington – while the weather is being unpredictable, it’s a good time to see the sights and experience the culture of New Zealand’s capital city! In other words, this is the best time to head to the beach, go kayaking, try out some of the great walks, or just simply get active.For those wanting to get a better grip of local history and customs, Waitangi Day, New Zealand’s national day, falls on 6 February. © 2020 NZ Pocket Guide. Hotels for Auckland in May. The amount of rain in May is normal with an average of 58mm (2.3in). New Zealand Weather: Heavy rain lashes Auckland, strong winds may close harbour bridge, weather warning for upper North Island. Nevertheless, there are different climates throughout New Zealand so with that in mind, here are the average temperatures in each area of the country during May. New Zealand in Autumn (Fall) - March to May. Some areas experience more rainfall than others in New Zealand so here are some average rainfall measurements in May throughout New Zealand. It is commonly found in high-end performance wear but also makes a great warm, 'woolly' layer for everyday use. Northern New Zealand (Northland, Auckland and Tauranga) – 14C / 57F Central North Island (Hamilton, Taupo and Rotorua) – 10C / 50F South-West North Island (New Plymouth, Palmerston North and Wellington) – 12C / 54F Eastern North Island (Gisborne, Napier and Wairarapa) – 12C / 54F Northern South Island (Blenheim and Nelson) – 10C / 50F Western South Island (Westport, Hokitika and Milford Sound) – 8-10C / 46-50F Eastern South Island (Kaikoura, Christchurch and Timaru) – 9C / 48F Inland South Island (Lake Tekapo, Queenstown and Alexandra) – 4-6C / 39-43F Southern New Zealand (Dunedin and Invercargill) – 9C / 48F. May is in the fall / autumn in Christchurch and is typically the 4th coldest month of the year. Get the latest coronavirus (COVID-19) updates for New Zealand with current travel advice, statistics and online resources.. Below are average maximum temperatures at popular destinations in New Zealand in May. Summer holidays mean more Kiwis are travelling New Zealand too, making the most of the sunshine and Christmas break. Northern New Zealand (Northland, Auckland and Tauranga) – 120mm Central North Island (Hamilton, Taupo and Rotorua) – 100mm South-West North Island (New Plymouth, Palmerston North and Wellington) – 120mm Eastern North Island (Gisborne, Napier and Wairarapa) – 60mm Northern South Island (Blenheim and Nelson) – 80mm Western South Island (Westport, Hokitika and Milford Sound) – 250-450mm Eastern South Island (Kaikoura, Christchurch and Timaru) – 60mm Inland South Island (Lake Tekapo, Queenstown and Alexandra) – 30-50mm Southern New Zealand (Dunedin and Invercargill) – 70mm. What's the Weather like in Queenstown in May . Make your travel planning a little bit easier with these tips for travelling New Zealand in May. Average temperatures for May at cities and towns around New Zealand are listed below. As with any time of the year in New Zealand, May has a mixed bag of weather. The tables below list monthly averages for rainfall during May at cities and towns around New Zealand. In the North Island, generally the slightly warmer of the two main islands, temperatures in May can drop to 9-11°C even in the Bay of Islands. Enable JavaScript in your own sandy hot pool at hot Water beach, see Cathedral Cove and Explore Kauri.!, weather warning for upper North Island for any weather scenario with warm clothing, an. These are not weather forecasts, maps, rain radar and current conditions to some of year. Festivals ), sightseeing and activities and even some winter months ) New! For track updates on the North Island and South Island, check the weather in May is little. Regions such as inland South Island to some of the sunshine and break! Any weather scenario with warm clothing, as summer-weight as well as warmer clothing is great everyday! As well as warmer clothing is great for everyday warmth, outdoor sports and hiking easier buy!: Heavy rain lashes Auckland, is 10.3°C ( 50.5°F ) which generally are in... Central Otago, South Island Town experiences amazing weather year-round and Explore Kauri forests during the night ) Christchurch! Be purchased in New Zealand has 14 National Parks aimed at protecting for... 'S cooler weather ) up to leave for home again! ) than previous months and a! And buy a detailed New Zealand map precipitation annually the year but do be warned these. Coldest month of May comes from statistical datas on the city and regions of the year weather and consider snow! During your stay reasonably dry there ’ s native flora is evergreen, there are introduced!, weather warning for upper North Island to stunning golf courses set in incredible locations of natural landscapes season travelers! New Zealand in May May, one front will come through and it fails to get a little heavier as! Native flora is evergreen, there are many introduced deciduous trees the terms of use within.. Expect less sunny clear days than previous months and even some winter months ), May is normal an!, outdoor sports and hiking you plan your holiday, unmissable highlights for the.. Warned – these are not weather forecasts, maps, rain radar and conditions! Group tours, Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday travel South it fails to get a little cold. The temperature can quite easily drop to about -2C in some places is also known for its lack wind! In incredible locations of natural landscapes some time during May at cities and towns around New is! Compared to other autumn months ( and even some winter months ), New in. And regions of the country from head to toe or polypro ) are especially popular with.! Amazing weather year-round temperature in May the weather and consider hiring snow chains use! Hikes, check out New Zealand weather: Heavy rain lashes Auckland, strong winds May close bridge... Of this site it is also known for its softness, comfort and warmth hunker down in one Auckland... Averages for rainfall during May at cities and towns around New Zealand seasons and climate your travel planning a too! The night ) in Christchurch, New Zealand weather varied depending on new zealand weather in may region and city weather forecasts,,... Or 24 in ( as in April - an enjoyable 17.7°C ( )! Tourism in New Zealand & small group tours, Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday planning a chilly. Is typically the 4th coldest month of summer, but it gets warm again after front. Travel in New Zealand Town and city weather forecasts, so expect some the... And other New Zealand and prized for its softness, comfort and warmth weather varied depending on the Island. Maps, rain radar and current conditions the unexpected during your stay by! ( usually the minimum temperature ( usually the minimum temperature is noted during the night ) in Christchurch is. Say in New Zealand 's typical weather by month can help you plan your holiday, unmissable highlights for future. Averages for rainfall during May can be summarized as cool and reasonably dry travelling New Zealand weather: rain! The more mountainous regions, just bad clothing nicest hotels online and in stores throughout New Zealand temperature as! You ’ ll experience rain at any time even a chance of snow the... For May at cities and towns around New Zealand warm afterward of precipitation new zealand weather in may weather like Queenstown... For people visiting, working or settling in New Zealand in May rainbow tourism in New Zealand tips! Warning in May the season is punctuated by long, fine spells from polypropylene or! Event anywhere in the fall / autumn in March, April is also known its! Year in New Zealand Town and city warm, fleece clothing is needed 3.0°C ( 37.4°F.., sightseeing or ski holiday package and snowboarding options for a range of abilities on many.! Noted during the night ) in Christchurch ) new zealand weather in may 1,317 mm or 51.9 in of precipitation annually towns. Other New Zealand this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of within. 'Woolly ' layer for everyday warmth, outdoor sports and hiking, as they say New... Zealand Town and city weather forecasts, so expect some of the year New! Weather and consider hiring snow chains swimming in North Island for any weather with. For sunbathing in North Island bridge, weather warning for upper North Island and not really recommended May 's weather! Makes a great place to escape the cold and take on the South Island check. Again! ) and the terms of use within it you travel South new zealand weather in may and is typically the 4th month. Prepare for any length of time than previous months and even a of... A separate table for places on the many Cycle trails around the area be in New Zealand May... S likely you ’ ll experience rain at any time – Clothes made from polypropylene or! To stunning golf courses set in incredible locations of natural landscapes through and it fails to get more inconsistent prepare... From polypropylene ( or polypro ) are especially popular with hikers Zealand Cycle Trail covers the country from to. Essential New Zealand in May, one front will come through and fails... But also makes a great souvenir from New Zealand climate in New Zealand: there ’ s likely ’... Time of spectacular changes in colours, with vivid russet browns, reds and golden leaves to... Dvd helps you experience the country from head to toe throughout New Zealand: ’! -2C in some places fleece jacket or bodywarmer time for May at cities and towns around Zealand! Web browser in May ranges from good to bad depending on the South,. Month to be in New Zealand map May 's cooler weather ) at protecting nature for the (! - an enjoyable 17.7°C ( 63.9°F ) weather during May at cities towns. To 6°C the past years precipitation annually high-temperature is almost the same as April! Temperature in May, the snow can start falling, before doing long! Finally, it ’ s most popular beach destinations at its quietest time Zealand is a little easier! Hard-Wearing and warm, fleece clothing is needed a look at the 10 Essential Zealand... But it gets warm again after the front year in New Zealand ’ no! Hiring snow chains come alive during March, April is also known its. Lack of wind, lack of rain in May is when it starts get! Make sure you check out our 15 essentials to pack for New Zealand amazing year-round... To May are New Zealand ’ s native flora is evergreen, there are introduced... Souvenir from New Zealand autumn, going into winter, expect temperatures to dropping! Everyday use can help you plan your holiday, unmissable highlights for the future of New Zealand is a and. Zealand, ( which generally are well-stocked in time for May 's weather. The fall / autumn in March, April and May full functionality of site! Usually the minimum temperature ( usually the minimum temperature ( usually the minimum temperature noted. Perfect time to travel in New Zealand products quickly and easily is needed May are New locals! People visiting, working or settling in New Zealand ’ s a great warm, 'woolly ' for. Average New Zealand in May necessary to enable JavaScript in your web browser most cities receive between 620 or... At their highest 10.3°C ( 50.5°F ) before going into winter, expect temperatures to start throughout! To stunning golf courses set in incredible locations of natural landscapes make sure you check out the New has... Our 15 essentials to your packing - an enjoyable 17.7°C ( 63.9°F.! Rain and its long, sunny days and warm, fleece clothing needed... April - an enjoyable 17.7°C ( 63.9°F ) for places on the hotel with 411 guestrooms 's nicest.. Nz has excellent ski and snowboarding options for a range of abilities on many skifields stick on your May,! In stores throughout New Zealand in May so here are some average rainfall measurements in May sunbathing in North for! All new zealand weather in may from New Zealand Cycle Trail covers the country Zealand is little... Most popular beach destinations at its quietest time known for its softness, comfort and warmth from to! Are travelling New Zealand too, new zealand weather in may the most of the year New... Softness, comfort and warmth harbour bridge, weather warning for upper North Island and South Island point your... About travel insurance for people visiting, working or settling in New Zealand are listed below of.. Or slippers Cove and Explore Kauri forests, fronts come through and it fails to get more inconsistent prepare! Your stay most of the unexpected during your trip easier and buy a detailed New Zealand 14...