Last updated: August 31, 2025
Experience the captivating weather of Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, in May, where the landscape transforms under a variable climate. As temperatures fluctuate from a maximum of 15°C (58°F) to a brisk minimum of -9°C (16°F), the average hovers around 5°C (42°F). This month, the area observes substantial precipitation, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) across 17 days, creating a lush environment ideal for exploration. With humidity levels soaring at 87%, the atmospheric richness enhances the breathtaking natural beauty, making May an enchanting time to visit this mountain paradise.
As May settles in at Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, temperatures begin to drop significantly, showcasing the region's transition into winter. The minimum temperature hovers around -9°C (16°F), while daytime averages linger at a chilly 5°C (42°F), and the highs reach a mild 15°C (58°F). This month marks a notable decline from the warmer autumn months, with April already hinting at cooler weather. As the leaves change, the landscape transforms into a stunning display with crisp air that invigorates outdoor enthusiasts, inviting hikers and nature lovers to embrace the cooler climate before winter fully takes hold. The steady decline in temperatures throughout May signals a shift, making it an ideal time for those who appreciate the serene beauty of the mountains wrapped in early frost.
May in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, ushers in a notable increase in precipitation, with 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain falling over 17 days. This uptick marks a continuation of the region's wet season, peaking just before a dip in June's rainfall to 137 mm (5.4 in). The month’s rainfall outstrips previous months, showcasing May as one of the wetter periods of the year. This trend underscores a consistent pattern of substantial precipitation, particularly in the autumn months, as the area transitions towards winter. Visitors can expect lush landscapes transformed by May's abundant rainfall, making it a vibrant time to experience the natural beauty of Arthur's Pass.
In May, humidity in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, reaches a notable peak of 87%, continuing the trend of increasing moisture levels from earlier months. Following a steady rise from 81% in March and 84% in April, May marks the transition into the winter months, where humidity remains consistently high at 87% through June and July. This persistent level of humidity throughout these months not only enhances the lush, vibrant landscapes of the region but also contributes to the enchanting ambience that makes Arthur's Pass a true gem of New Zealand. As autumn turns to winter, the area's increased moisture can create stunning misty mornings often sought after by nature lovers and photographers alike.
As the seasons transition in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, the UV Index reflects a notable decline in sun intensity by May, settling at 4—indicating a moderate exposure category. This drop in UV radiation means that the burn time increases to about 30 minutes, allowing for more leisurely outdoor activities without the immediate threat of sunburn. Compared to the extreme levels observed in the peak of summer months, with indices soaring to 13 in January and February, May offers a more tempered sun experience. This trend of decreasing UV levels will continue into winter, where the index further lowers to 2 in June, highlighting a gradual shift toward safer outdoor conditions. To plan your activities accordingly and stay informed, check the detailed forecast at Arthur's Pass UV Index.
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In May, Arthur's Pass welcomes a blend of vibrant late autumn colors, yet the sunshine starts to dwindle, offering 180 hours of daylight. This marks a noticeable dip from the 245 hours enjoyed in October and the robust 299 hours of December, showcasing the seasonal shift. As sunny days become more precious, the area transitions from the peak brightness of summer into the cooler months, emphasizing the unique charm of this stunning region. The gradual decline in sunlight hours is consistent, and while January through April basked in generous light, May hints at the approaching winter, allowing visitors to savor the beauty of nature in its most tranquil form.
In Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather in May is relatively promising, with a 28% chance of sunshine. This marks a noticeable rebound from the gloomier April, which hovers at just 19%. When compared to other months, May’s figures are quite favorable, surpassing the cloudy winter months of June and July, both at 19%. Interestingly, the sunshine probability in May falls just slightly short of January and February's peaks, which enjoy 26% and 30% chances, respectively. This trend highlights a gradual transition towards brighter days as the region moves from autumn into the cooler months, making May a delightful time for those seeking to embrace Arthur's Pass’s stunning landscapes under sunnier skies.
As the seasons shift in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, the daylight duration tells a captivating story of changing times. January basks in a generous 14 hours of sunlight, gradually tapering off to 12 hours by March. As autumn takes hold, April sees daylight drop further to 10 hours, leading into the more subdued May, when the sun graces the sky for just 9 hours. This trend of shorter days continues through June and July, where the daylight remains consistent at 9 hours, marking the depths of winter. However, as spring approaches, daylight begins to reclaim its hours, with August nudging back to 10 hours, followed by an uplifting 11 hours in September. The light grows increasingly abundant, racing back to 14 hours in November and peaking at 15 hours in December. This rhythmic cycle of daylight not only shapes the landscape but also enhances the vibrant experience of nature throughout the year.
In May, the winds in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand, exhibit a gentle and consistent character, with an average speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph). This stability follows a slight dip from the breezier days of April, which experienced winds at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). Notably, the winds in May reflect a general trend towards calmer conditions as winter approaches, contrasting with the building gusts seen in the transitional months before and after. As spring gives way to winter, May's mild breezes provide a serene backdrop to the stunning mountainous scenery, inviting visitors to explore the beauty of a landscape shaped by nature’s elements.
Weather in Arthur's Pass varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Arthur's Pass, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May experiences colder temperatures with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while January is milder, starting from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and averaging 12°C (54°F). In terms of maximum temperatures, May reaches up to 15°C (58°F), whereas January can soar to 23°C (73°F), indicating a significant warmth during the summer month. Precipitation is slightly higher in May, with 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days, compared to January's 210 mm (8.3 in) across 16 days. Additionally, May has a higher humidity level of 87%, while January sits at 81%. For more information on January weather specifics, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in January.
May and February present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures can drop as low as -9°C (16°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 15°C (58°F), making it a much cooler month overall. Precipitation is significant, with 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, February enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). It also has slightly lower precipitation at 230 mm (9.0 in) over just 15 days, and a more comfortable humidity level of 79%. For more details on February weather, you can visit Arthur's Pass weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it's clear that May is generally cooler and wetter. May's average temperature stands at 5°C (42°F) with a maximum of 15°C (58°F), whereas March enjoys a milder average of 11°C (52°F) and peaks at 19°C (67°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days, compared to March's 229 mm (9.0 in) across 15 days. The humidity is also higher in May, reaching 87% compared to March's 81%. For a closer look at March weather specifics, you can refer to Arthur's Pass weather in March.
In comparing the weather between May and April, we observe a slight increase in overall temperatures during May, with an average of 5°C (42°F) compared to April’s 8°C (46°F). However, May experiences cooler minimum temperatures with a low of -9°C (16°F) versus April's -10°C (14°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with May receiving 243 mm (9.6 in) across 17 days, slightly higher than April's 228 mm (9.0 in) over 16 days. Humidity also increases in May, reaching 87% compared to April's 84%. For a more detailed look at April weather specifics, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (42°F). The precipitation is significant, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 rainy days, while humidity remains high at 87%.
In contrast, June features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), resulting in an average of 3°C (37°F). Precipitation decreases to 137 mm (5.4 in) across 15 days, although humidity remains consistent at 87%. For a more detailed look at June weather, please see Arthur's Pass weather in June.
The weather in May and July exhibits notable differences despite similar humidity levels of 87%. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). Precipitation is significant, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days. In contrast, July experiences even cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of only 10°C (51°F), averaging at 2°C (36°F). July also sees a higher total precipitation of 269 mm (10.6 in) over the same amount of days. For a more detailed look at July conditions, you can refer to Arthur's Pass weather in July.
May and August present notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). This month experiences a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), resulting in an average temperature of 3°C (37°F). Precipitation decreases to 202 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 85%. For more detailed insights, refer to Arthur's Pass weather in August.
May and September exhibit similar weather patterns, yet notable differences set them apart. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to an average of 5°C (42°F) and can reach a maximum of 15°C (58°F), with high humidity at 87%. In comparison, September shows slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of -8°C (18°F), an average of 4°C (40°F), and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is prevalent in both months, but September experiences more, with 270 mm (10.6 in) over 19 days, compared to May's 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days. For a more detailed look at September weather specifically, visit Arthur's Pass weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, we observe that both months experience chilly temperatures, with May showing a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while October sees slightly lower minimums at -12°C (11°F) and a higher average of 7°C (44°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are similar, with May reaching up to 15°C (58°F) and October slightly higher at 18°C (64°F). Precipitation levels are comparable as well, with May receiving 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days and October a bit more at 251 mm (9.9 in) over 21 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with May at 87% and October slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check Arthur's Pass weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, with May experiencing cooler temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to an average of 5°C (42°F), peaking at 15°C (58°F). In May, precipitation is considerable, with 243 mm (9.6 in) spread over 17 days, resulting in high humidity levels at 87%. Conversely, November sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), reaching up to 20°C (68°F). The month also brings more rainfall, totaling 304 mm (12.0 in) over 19 days, but with slightly lower humidity at 82%. For more specific insights into November weather, Arthur's Pass weather in November offers detailed information.
May and December present contrasting weather patterns, with December typically being milder. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), while December offers a more comfortable range from -1°C (31°F) to 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is substantial in both months, with May receiving 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days and December recording 285 mm (11.2 in) across 19 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 87%, compared to December’s 84%. For a deeper insight into December weather conditions, you can refer to Arthur's Pass weather in December.
May in Arthur's Pass heralds a significant shift in weather, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity, which typically hovers around 87%. As the region transitions from the milder autumn months, temperatures drop from the comfortable averages of earlier in the season to chilly lows, with frequent frosts at night. May also sees a marked rise in precipitation, with rain gracing approximately half the month, compared to the drier days of summer. This combination of factors not only defines May’s atmosphere but also sets the stage for the winter months ahead. For a deeper dive into the unique climate characteristics of Arthur's Pass, check out Arthur's Pass Climate.