Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Whakatane, New Zealand, offers a blend of cool temperatures and significant rainfall, creating a unique and refreshing atmosphere. With maximum temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), the days are pleasantly crisp. However, nights can drop to a chilly 4°C (39°F). This month also brings 107 mm (4.2 in) of rain over approximately 9 days, resulting in a humidity level of 83%. Such conditions not only define the character of Whakatane's late autumn but also contribute to the lush landscapes and vibrant flora in the region.
As May approaches in Whakatane, New Zealand, the temperatures begin to dip, signaling the transition from the warmer months. With a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F), the month marks a clear shift from the mild warmth of April. Daytime highs reach a comfortable 20°C (68°F), offering pleasant conditions for outdoor exploration. This month signifies the start of cooler weather patterns, yet the temperatures remain moderate compared to the chill of winter that follows. Overall, May in Whakatane is characterized by a gradual cooling trend, making it an ideal time for cozy gatherings and scenic walks, as nature starts to don its autumn hues.
May in Whakatane sees a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with 107 mm (4.2 in) of rainfall spread over 9 days. This month's rainfall marks a decrease from the heavier downpours of April, which recorded 146 mm. Despite this reduction, May still maintains a robust level of precipitation, indicative of the lingering autumn weather. As the region transitions into winter, the subsequent months ramp up significantly, with June alone bringing a substantial 154 mm. Overall, May serves as a bridge between the wettest months of autumn and the approaching winter, showcasing Whakatane's distinctive climate rhythm.
In Whakatane, New Zealand, May brings a notable increase in humidity, reaching a comfortable 83% as the cooler autumn months settle in. This surge marks a significant rise from the preceding months, where humidity levels gradually climbed from 74% in April. As the season transitions into winter, humidity continues to ascend, peaking at 85% in June before stabilizing throughout the cooler months. Overall, the shift in May reflects a clear trend of increasing moisture in the air, setting the stage for the wetter conditions that follow.
In May, Whakatane experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, with a burn time of 30 minutes, indicating a shift towards more temperate sun exposure compared to the intensity of the summer months. This trend of decreasing UV levels becomes evident as the region transitions from the extreme and very high UV conditions of earlier months like January and February, which featured indices of 14 and 13 respectively, down to a manageable level in May. This pattern persists into the winter months, where the UV Index stabilizes further at 3 in June and July, maintaining a moderate exposure. As you plan your outdoor activities, it's essential to remain aware of these fluctuations; for detailed information, visit Whakatane UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As the sun begins to soften its grip in May, Whakatane experiences a notable dip in daylight hours with 219 hours of sunshine. This marks a decline from the vibrant daylight of earlier months, particularly January through April, which basked in over 240 hours. The change signals the onset of winter, with June following closely with a further reduction to 183 hours. However, as the year progresses, there is a promising upward trend ahead, with the sunshine hours steadily increasing towards the summer months. The contrast of May's diminishing brightness against the backdrop of the previous summer makes the anticipation for the sun-soaked days in the latter half of the year all the more compelling.
As we transition into May in Whakatane, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather maintains a moderate 49% chance. This positions May quite favorably compared to the preceding months, showing a slight uptick from April's 51% and a notable contrast to the impending winter months of June and July, which dip to 34% and 50%, respectively. Although May's sunshine probability is lower than the summer peak in January at 52%, it reflects a generally stable trend of mild sun exposure. Overall, while May may not yield the sunniest days of the year, it certainly holds promise for pleasant, bright moments amid the increasing cloudiness that winter typically brings.
In Whakatane, New Zealand, the May daylight duration marks a gentle transition into the cooler months, with the sun gracing the skies for 10 hours. This decrease continues from the long summer days of January, where daylight spans an impressive 14 hours, gradually waning to the shorter hours of winter in June and July at just 9 hours. As autumn fades, May's 10 hours serves as a slight reprieve before daylight begins its slow return in August, bringing back the promise of longer days. The rhythm of daylight highlights the region's seasonal shifts, creating an enchanting cycle that shapes the local landscape and lifestyle throughout the year.
In Whakatane, May ushers in a gentle increase in wind activity, with an average wind speed of 3.7 m/s (or 8 mph). This uptick is a pleasant shift from the previous months, which maintained a steady average around 3.3 m/s. As the year progresses, the wind continues to gain momentum, with speeds climbing to 4.0 m/s in the winter months of July and September. May stands out as a transitional period, foreshadowing the breezier days ahead while still providing a tranquil atmosphere that compliments the onset of winter. The consistent wind speeds throughout the preceding months emphasize a pattern of stability, making Whakatane a serene yet dynamic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather in Whakatane varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Whakatane, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather of May and January, it's clear that January is warmer and drier than May. January boasts average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), while May experiences much cooler averages, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and peaking at 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is also less frequent in January, with approximately 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 7 days, compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) spread over 9 days. Additionally, January has a lower humidity level of 69% compared to May's higher 83%, making it feel quite different overall. For more detailed information, you can check Whakatane weather in January.
May and February present distinct weather profiles, showcasing the transition between seasons. In February, temperatures are notably higher, with an average of 20°C (68°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (91°F), making it a warm month ideal for outdoor activities. In contrast, May cools down significantly, featuring a lower average temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). While both months experience considerable humidity, February's average is 69%, compared to May's 83%, contributing to the more comfortable feel in the earlier month. Precipitation is slightly higher in May at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days, while February sees 96 mm (3.8 in) over 7 days, suggesting that both months have their share of rainy weather. For a detailed overview of February conditions, refer to Whakatane weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, several notable differences emerge. In March, temperatures are generally warmer, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), while May experiences cooler conditions, ranging from 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Additionally, precipitation levels are relatively similar, with March receiving 115 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days. Humidity is also lower in March at 71%, compared to the higher humidity of 83% in May. For more information on Whakatane's weather, you can view the details here: Whakatane weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, April tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures reaching 16°C (61°F), while May sees a dip with an average of 13°C (56°F). April's minimum and maximum temperatures are also slightly higher, ranging from 7°C (46°F) to 23°C (75°F), compared to May's 4°C (39°F) to 20°C (68°F). Additionally, April experiences higher precipitation levels at 146 mm (5.7 in) over 10 days, as opposed to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days. However, May has a higher humidity level at 83%, compared to April's 74%. For more detailed information, you can check Whakatane weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, it becomes evident that both months present cool temperatures, with May generally being slightly warmer. May sees a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), while June drops to a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation also rises in June, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days, indicating a wetter transition into early winter. Additionally, humidity levels are quite similar, with May at 83% and June increasing slightly to 85%. For a more detailed look at June's weather specifically, you can visit Whakatane weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, it is evident that July tends to be slightly cooler and wetter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), while July experiences lower temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation is also higher in July, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) spread over 9 days, and humidity levels rise slightly, averaging 86% in July compared to 83% in May. For a detailed look at July conditions, you can check out Whakatane weather in July.
In May, the weather typically features milder temperatures, with average highs reaching 20°C (68°F) and lows not dropping below 4°C (39°F). The month sees an average of 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, maintaining a consistent humidity level of 83%. In contrast, August experiences slightly cooler temperatures, where the average maximum is 18°C (64°F) and the minimum dips to 2°C (36°F). Additionally, August is wetter, with precipitation totaling 156 mm (6.1 in) over approximately 13 days, while humidity remains steady at 83%. For more detailed weather information, see Whakatane weather in August.
May and September weather in Whakatane shows some interesting similarities and differences. Both months experience similar maximum temperatures, reaching up to 20°C (68°F), but May tends to be slightly warmer on average, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) compared to September's 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in September, with 126 mm (5.0 in) over 13 days, compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days. Additionally, humidity is a bit higher in May at 83%, while September's humidity drops to 78%. For a deeper insight into September weather specifics, you can refer to the link: Whakatane weather in September.
In May, temperatures typically range from a chilly minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a mild average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a maximum of 20°C (68°F). The month is characterized by significant rain, with 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over about 9 days and high humidity at 83%. In contrast, October experiences slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 5°C (41°F), averaging 14°C (57°F), and reaching up to 24°C (75°F). However, it sees increased rainfall, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) over 12 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 77%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can visit Whakatane weather in October.
In comparing the weather between May and November, it's evident that November enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 8°C and an average of 16°C, compared to May's cooler minimum of 4°C and average of 13°C. November also sees warmer maximum temperatures averaging 26°C, whereas May reaches up to 20°C. Precipitation levels are slightly lower in November at 92 mm over 10 days, as compared to May's 107 mm over 9 days, contributing to a less humid environment with 74% humidity in November versus 83% in May. For a more detailed look at November weather patterns, you can visit Whakatane weather in November.
May and December in Whakatane present distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures typically range from a cooler minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a mild maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month sees significant precipitation, averaging 107 mm (4.2 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 83%. In contrast, December experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching up to 27°C (80°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). This month also has a slightly higher total precipitation of 128 mm (5.1 in) spread over 13 days, but the humidity is notably lower at 66%. For more detailed information, you can explore Whakatane weather in December.
As May unfolds in Whakatane, the weather transitions into cooler temperatures, offering a refreshing change compared to the warmer months of summer. Daytime highs hover around a comfortable 20°C while nights dip to a brisk 4°C, inviting cozy evenings. With an average precipitation of 107 mm over 9 days, May brings a notable increase in rainfall, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. The humidity remains high at 83%, adding to the crispness in the air. This blend of cooler temperatures and increased rain sets May apart from the dry and warm summer months, making it a unique time to experience the beauty of Whakatane. For more insights into the climate of this enchanting region, visit Whakatane Climate.