Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Rotorua, New Zealand presents a delightful blend of crisp temperatures and lush greenery, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts to explore. With maximum temperatures reaching a comfortable 19°C (67°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), the climate is cool yet inviting. However, prepare for the occasional chill, as temperatures can drop to a brisk -1°C (31°F) at night. Rainfall is prominent during this month, with 95 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, contributing to the region's vibrant landscapes. Humidity levels are relatively high at 83%, creating a refreshing atmosphere that enhances the natural beauty of Rotorua's geothermal wonders.
In Rotorua, New Zealand, May marks a notable shift towards cooler temperatures as autumn deepens. With a minimum temperature dipping to -1°C (31°F), the chill sets in, offering a stark contrast to the balmy summer days just a few months prior. The average temperature settles around 11°C (52°F), providing a cozy atmosphere ideal for exploring geothermal wonders and stunning landscapes. The maximum temperature reaches a mild 19°C (67°F), making afternoons perfect for outdoor activities, yet the cooler mornings remind visitors that winter is on the horizon. This transitional month epitomizes the region's fluctuating climate, paving the way for the colder months ahead while still embracing the lingering warmth of autumn.
In May, Rotorua experiences a moderate precipitation of 95 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 9 days, continuing the trend of increased rainfall seen throughout the preceding months. This marks a slight decrease from April's 128 mm (5.1 in), yet it maintains the city's reputation for damp autumn weather. As the year progresses toward winter, the precipitation levels tend to rise, with June and July exhibiting even higher averages. Despite the brief interruption in the wetter pattern during May, the rain continues to nurture Rotorua's lush landscapes, reinforcing its status as a vibrant and picturesque destination year-round.
As May arrives in Rotorua, New Zealand, residents and visitors experience a noticeable shift in humidity, peaking at an impressive 83%. This marks a considerable increase from the previous months, with April already at 74%. The transition into late autumn brings a consistent upward trend in humidity, which continues into the colder winter months, with June and July reaching even higher levels of 85% and 86%, respectively. This pattern highlights a distinct seasonal rhythm in Rotorua, where the lush landscape thrives amid the rising moisture, creating a unique and captivating environment.
In May, Rotorua experiences a notable shift in UV exposure, with the UV Index dropping to 4, categorizing it as moderate. This decline from the extreme levels observed in the height of summer indicates a safer period for outdoor activities, allowing for an extended burn time of 30 minutes without significant risk. As autumn progresses, residents and visitors can enjoy the milder sun, making it an ideal time for exploration and adventure in the region. However, it's still wise to remain cautious and protect your skin. To learn more about UV levels throughout the year, check out Rotorua UV Index.
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As we transition into May, Rotorua experiences a gentle decline in sunshine hours, with 200 hours that month—a significant drop from the summer highs of January and February. This gradual reduction sets the stage for the cooler months ahead, as the vibrant energy of autumn begins to take hold. While May still basks in a fair amount of sunlight, it’s a noticeable shift from the earlier months, where days often stretch well over 260 hours. June further narrows the sun-drenched days, emphasizing Rotorua's characteristic seasonal rhythm. This ebb and flow of sunshine not only showcases the region's diverse climate but also invites locals and visitors alike to relish the mild days of late autumn before the chill of winter sets in.
As May arrives in Rotorua, the likelihood of sunny weather stands at 41%, reflecting a slight decline from the warmer months of January through April, which boast higher sun chances ranging from 44% to 47%. This trend indicates that while May can still surprise with sunny days, it marks a transition towards the cooler and cloudier months ahead. Following May, the chances of sunshine drop notably, with June plummeting to just 26%. Thus, for those planning outdoor activities in May, it’s a great opportunity to soak up the serene beauty of Rotorua, but keep an eye on the forecast, as the sky may soon shift toward grayer days.
As the year unfolds in Rotorua, New Zealand, daylight duration experiences a captivating ebb and flow. January begins with a generous 14 hours of sunlight, gradually tapering to 10 hours by May. This trend highlights a slow descent into winter, where June and July linger with just 9 hours of daylight, presenting a stark contrast to the summer months. However, as spring approaches, daylight once again begins to stretch longer, returning to 10 hours in August and building back to 14 hours by November and December. This cyclical pattern not only marks the changing seasons but also sets a picturesque backdrop for the vibrant landscapes and activities that Rotorua has to offer throughout the year.
In Rotorua, New Zealand, the month of May ushers in a slight increase in wind speed, with averages reaching 3.2 m/s (7 mph). This marks a fascinating transition, as the winds begin to pick up following the relatively calm summer months of January through April, where speeds lingered around 2.6 to 2.9 m/s (6 mph). As winter approaches, the winds remain steady, with a consistent 3.2 m/s noted in both May and the subsequent months of July and August. Interestingly, the trend shows a gradual escalation towards September, where winds peak at 3.5 m/s (8 mph), suggesting that Rotorua's breezy atmosphere is a prelude to the lively winter season ahead. Overall, May serves as a bridge, transitioning from the gentle summer breezes to the more invigorating winds of winter.
Weather in Rotorua varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Rotorua, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present quite contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 19°C (67°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, with about 95 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, combined with higher humidity levels at 83%. Conversely, January boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), reaching a maximum of 29°C (84°F). This month is characterized by lower precipitation, totaling 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, and a humidity level of 69%. To learn more about the specific conditions in January, check out Rotorua weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences in temperature and humidity emerge. May experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to -1°C (31°F) and average highs around 19°C (67°F), whereas February boasts warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, around 95-96 mm (3.8 in), but May is characterized by higher humidity at 83%, compared to February's 69%. For more detailed insights into February weather, check out Rotorua weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it is evident that March tends to be warmer, with daily average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), while May's temperatures are cooler, averaging 11°C (52°F) with a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, March experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days, in contrast to May's 95 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are also higher in May at 83%, compared to March's more comfortable 71%. For a closer look at weather specifics, refer to Rotorua weather in March.
In comparing the weather conditions of May and April, it is evident that April generally enjoyed warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), compared to May’s cooler range of -1°C (31°F) to 19°C (67°F). April also boasted a higher average temperature of 13°C (56°F) versus May's 11°C (52°F). However, May saw slightly less precipitation at 95 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, compared to April's 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days. Furthermore, the humidity in May was higher at 83%, while April's humidity was at a more comfortable 74%. For a closer look at the weather specifics for April, you can visit Rotorua weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, the average temperature is a comfortable 11°C (52°F), with a maximum of 19°C (67°F) and a minimum of -1°C (31°F). This month experiences about 95 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, June sees a slight drop in temperatures, with an average of 9°C (48°F), a maximum of 17°C (63°F), and a minimum of -2°C (29°F). Precipitation increases to 110 mm (4.3 in) over 10 days, and humidity rises slightly to 85%. For more detailed insights on June conditions, visit Rotorua weather in June.
May and July present contrasting weather patterns, with May generally being milder. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 19°C (67°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 95 mm (3.8 in) over nine days, with humidity levels at 83%. In contrast, July sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a lower average of 8°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of only 15°C (59°F). Rainfall increases to 125 mm (4.9 in) across 12 days, leading to a slightly higher humidity level of 86%. For more details on July weather, you can check Rotorua weather in July.
The weather in May tends to be milder compared to August, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 11°C (52°F) to a comfortable high of 19°C (67°F). In contrast, August sees lower temperatures, with an average of 8°C (47°F) and maximums only reaching up to 15°C (60°F). Additionally, May experiences less precipitation, with 95 mm (3.8 in) over about 9 days, whereas August receives more rain—totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) across 15 days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 83%, contributing to a damp climate. For detailed insights into August weather, you can check Rotorua weather in August.
In May, temperatures in Rotorua usually range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences about 95 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity of 83%. In contrast, September sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), average around 10°C (50°F). This month receives more rainfall, with 115 mm (4.5 in) spread over about 14 days, leading to a lower humidity level of 78%. For a more detailed insight into the weather during this month, you can visit Rotorua weather in September.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences approximately 95 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over about 9 days and high humidity at 83%. In contrast, October sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 22°C (73°F), alongside an average of 12°C (53°F). October also experiences more precipitation, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) over around 14 days, while humidity drops to 77%. For more detailed weather information, check out Rotorua weather in October.
May and November present quite different weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). The month sees around 95 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, November offers milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum reaching 29°C (85°F), providing an average of 15°C (58°F). Although November has slightly more precipitation at 100 mm (3.9 in) spread over 13 days, the humidity is lower at 74%, making it feel more comfortable. For detailed information on the weather in November, visit Rotorua weather in November.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a mild 19°C (67°F) during the day, with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month sees about 95 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, December features warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 5°C (41°F) and daytime highs reaching 28°C (83°F), averaging 17°C (62°F). December also experiences increased rainfall at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, but with a lower humidity of 66%. For a detailed look at the weather in December, you can check Rotorua weather in December.
May in Rotorua brings a significant shift in weather, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity compared to the preceding months. As the region transitions into winter, the landscape becomes lush from the 95 mm of rainfall, with an average of nine rainy days prompting a cozy atmosphere. While the maximum temperatures hover around a mild 19°C, the drop to near freezing at night introduces a refreshing chill that contrasts sharply with the warmth of summer. For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and geothermal wonders, understanding this unique climate is essential. Explore more about the weather trends throughout the year at Rotorua Climate.