Last updated: August 31, 2025
In Timaru, New Zealand, May presents a refreshing transition into winter, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 18°C (64°F) to a minimum of 2°C (35°F), averaging around 10°C (50°F). This month experiences 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, resulting in an 84% humidity level that adds to the crisp, invigorating atmosphere. Ideal for cozy indoor activities or brisk walks, May in Timaru invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beauty of the changing season.
As May unfolds in Timaru, New Zealand, temperatures begin to dip, marking a transition into the cooler months. With minimum temperatures dropping to around 2°C (35°F) and averages hovering at 10°C (50°F), the crisp air sets a refreshing tone. The maximums reach a pleasant 18°C (64°F), offering a mild respite from the growing chill. This month's temperatures reflect a gradual decline from the warmth of summer, reminiscent of the earlier months, such as January's highs of 26°C (80°F) and February's 27°C (81°F). As the leaves change and the days shorten, May invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy cozy moments while still basking in the light of late autumn.
In May, Timaru experiences a noticeable dip in precipitation, recording 45 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days, making it one of the drier months of the year. This decline continues the trend from April, which saw 82 mm (3.2 in), and stands in contrast to the wetter months that surround it, such as November, with its hefty 105 mm (4.1 in). While May's rainfall may not be as abundant, it contributes to the lush greenness that New Zealand is renowned for, highlighting a seasonal shift as the region transitions into winter. The overall pattern reveals a rhythm in Timaru's climate, where the dry spells of spring pave the way for the increased precipitation characteristic of the upcoming months.
In May, Timaru experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 84%, which marks one of the higher points in the year. This upward trend continues from the previous months, where humidity levels steadily rise from 81% in April. The transition into winter sees May's humidity aligning closely with the following months, June and July, both at 85%. Overall, this pattern indicates a trend of increasing humidity as the seasons change, with May serving as a key month that bridges the fading warmth of autumn and the coolness of winter, creating a lush and invigorating atmosphere in this charming New Zealand town.
In May, Timaru experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, marking a noticeable transition from the intense summer months. As the sun's rays become less potent, the recommended burn time extends to 30 minutes compared to the extreme levels seen earlier in the year. This shift from January's extreme index of 13 ensures that residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities with a decreased risk of sunburn. As spring approaches, it is crucial to remain mindful of UV exposure, but there's a comfortable window for safe enjoyment of the outdoors. For more detailed information on sun safety and UV levels, visit Timaru UV Index.
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As May rolls in Timaru, New Zealand, residents experience a noticeable dip in sunshine hours, with a total of 199 hours that month. This decline follows the pattern set by the cooler autumn months, as April has 231 hours, marking a gradual decrease from the vibrant summer months of January and February, which showcase over 275 hours of sun. Looking forward, the sunshine continues to wane into June, where it plummets to 156 hours, signaling the approach of winter. However, as the seasons change, the trend picks up again in the latter half of the year, with October and November promising a return to brighter days, highlighting Timaru’s delightful seasonal contrasts.
In Timaru, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 41%, making it a favorable month for sun-seekers compared to the chillier winter months of June and July, where the chances plummet to 25% and 34% respectively. This moderate probability is a slight dip from April's 50% but is still a marked improvement over the subsequent months leading into winter. Interestingly, after April, May presents one of the better chances for sunshine, only surpassed by a few spring months. As autumn progresses, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the transitional beauty of the season, with a decent opportunity to experience bright, sunny days before the colder weather sets in.
In Timaru, New Zealand, the shift in daylight duration throughout the year paints a captivating picture of seasonal change. As summer transitions into winter, daylight begins to wane, with January basking in a generous 15 hours of sunlight that gradually diminishes to just 9 hours by May. April marks a notable decline, as the days shorten significantly, foreshadowing the arrival of winter's briefest days in June, where light is at its minimum with only 8 hours. However, as the seasons pivot back toward summer, daylight starts to increase again, ultimately reaching 15 hours in December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only highlights the beauty of Timaru's climate but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the unique offerings of each season.
In May, the wind in Timaru begins to pick up slightly, with an average speed of 3.8 m/s (9 mph), marking a subtle increase from the calmer days of April. As the seasons transition, the wind tends to show a gentle upward trend, with May boasting one of the higher averages of the year, just shy of peak summer months. This uplift in wind speed serves as a precursor to the gustier conditions expected in winter, as evidenced by fluctuating averages in April and the following months. Overall, May strikes a balance, providing a refreshing breeze that heralds the approach of winter without overwhelming the coastal landscape.
Weather in Timaru varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Timaru, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, we observe distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of around 10°C (50°F). In contrast, January boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a high of 26°C (80°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Additionally, January experiences slightly more precipitation, with 69 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days, compared to May's 45 mm (1.8 in) across 10 days. Humidity levels are relatively comparable, with May at 84% and January at 79%. For more specific details, you can check Timaru weather in January.
In comparing the weather in May and February, we find notable differences in temperature and precipitation. February tends to be warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F). In contrast, May's temperatures are cooler, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). While May receives less precipitation at 45 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days, February sees more rain, totaling 88 mm (3.5 in) across the same number of days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in May at 84%, compared to 76% in February. For a more detailed look at February weather specifically, you can check Timaru weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, significant differences emerge. March experiences higher temperatures, with average highs of 24°C (75°F) compared to May's max of 18°C (64°F). Additionally, March has a warmer minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F), while May starts cooler at 2°C (35°F). Precipitation in March is also more substantial, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, compared to May’s 45 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days. Despite this, May has a slightly higher humidity level at 84%, compared to March’s 78%. For more details about March weather, visit Timaru weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, April generally enjoys warmer temperatures, with an average of 12°C (54°F) compared to May's cooler average of 10°C (50°F). The minimum temperatures in April are also higher at 5°C (41°F) versus May’s 2°C (35°F). However, May experiences less precipitation overall, with 45 mm (1.8 in) falling over 10 days, compared to April's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 12 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with April at 81% and May slightly higher at 84%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can check Timaru weather in April.
May and June showcase a gradual shift in weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 45 mm (1.8 in) over about 10 days, coupled with a humidity level of 84%. Conversely, June presents slightly cooler conditions with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at 16°C (61°F). Precipitation in June slightly increases to 48 mm (1.9 in) over the same number of rainy days, with humidity levels rising to 85%. For more specific details regarding June weather, you can refer to Timaru weather in June.
In May, temperatures in Timaru range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). The month experiences around 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, coupled with a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, July sees a slight drop in temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging 6°C (44°F). Precipitation increases to 76 mm (3.0 in), also spread over about 10 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 85%. For a more detailed look at July's weather conditions, you can visit Timaru weather in July.
In May, the weather is slightly milder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while August experiences a cooler temperature range, with minimums dropping to 0°C (33°F) and maximums reaching 17°C (63°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels of 45 mm (1.8 in), but May has a slightly higher frequency of rainy days, occurring around 10 times compared to August's 9 days. Interestingly, the humidity remains constant at 84% in both months, creating a consistently damp atmosphere. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can visit Timaru weather in August.
May and September in Timaru share some similarities in temperature, with both months experiencing a minimum of around 2°C (35°F to 36°F) and a maximum reaching up to 18°C (64°F to 65°F). However, May averages slightly warmer at 10°C (50°F) compared to September's 9°C (48°F). Precipitation levels are also comparable, with May receiving 45 mm (1.8 in) over about 10 days, while September sees a similar amount at 47 mm (1.8 in) but over fewer days, averaging just 8 days of rain. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with May at 84% and September slightly lower at 83%. For more details, you can check out Timaru weather in September.
May and October exhibit a transition in weather patterns, with October generally being slightly warmer than May. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), while October sees temperatures from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) up to 20°C (68°F). Although October is warmer, it also experiences more precipitation, averaging 75 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 16 days compared to May's 45 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with May at 84% and October slightly lower at 80%. For more detailed insights into October weather, you can check Timaru weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, with May experiencing cooler temperatures and higher humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). The month sees about 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, resulting in a humid environment with an 84% humidity level.
In contrast, November offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum soaring up to 26°C (79°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). However, it also brings a higher level of precipitation, totaling 105 mm (4.1 in), experienced over 13 days, and a slightly lower humidity at 78%. For more specific insights into November weather, you can visit Timaru weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (35°F) to a mild 18°C (64°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F) and an average humidity of 84%. The month experiences about 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over roughly 10 days, indicating a relatively damp month.
In contrast, December showcases warmer temperatures with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). However, it also sees increased rainfall, with 104 mm (4.1 in) spread across approximately 16 days, coupled with a slightly lower humidity of 81%. For more details, you can check Timaru weather in December.
As May unfolds in Timaru, it brings a distinctive chill that sets it apart from the more temperate months preceding it. With temperatures settling at an average of 10°C (50°F), residents and visitors alike prepare for crisp days and cooler nights, where lows dip down to 2°C (35°F). Rainfall becomes a staple, with 10 days of precipitation contributing to a total of 45 mm (1.8 in), casting a moody yet refreshing ambiance. The humidity level also climbs to a notable 84%, fostering a unique coastal atmosphere. Thus, if you’re looking to experience Timaru’s weather in its more vibrant yet cool state, May offers a compelling contrast to the warmer months. For those keen to explore the climate changes in this lovely region, more insights can be found at Timaru Climate.