Last updated: August 31, 2025
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, May brings a blend of cool temperatures and notable precipitation. With maximum temperatures reaching a pleasant 21°C (69°F), the average settles around 12°C (54°F), while chilly nights can plunge to a minimum of 0°C (33°F). Rain is a frequent visitor, with 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation falling over approximately 10 days, contributing to an 82% humidity level that fills the air with a crisp, refreshing feel. Whether exploring the invigorating outdoors or cozying up indoors, May offers a unique charm in this vibrant region.
In May, Palmerston North begins to transition into winter, with temperatures dropping noticeably. The minimum temperature hits 0°C (33°F), marking the first signs of frost, while the average settles at a cool 12°C (54°F). Despite the chill, daytime highs can still reach a pleasant 21°C (69°F), offering a balance that makes late autumn quite enjoyable. This month stands out for its shift from the milder temperatures of earlier months, as April’s averages are more than two degrees warmer. As the days grow shorter, the crisp air and the vibrant autumn foliage create a picturesque setting, making May a unique time to experience the changing seasons in Pacific New Zealand.
May in Palmerston North continues a trend of significant rainfall, with an average precipitation of 78 mm (3.1 in) over about 10 days. This month marks a slight drop from April's 118 mm (4.7 in), showcasing the transitional nature of late autumn. The consistent rainfall pattern established from March through May suggests that the region experiences a relatively wet spell during this period, before the wetter months of winter set in. As the temperatures begin to cool, residents and visitors alike can expect a blend of fresh, crisp air and vibrant greenery, thanks to the nourishing rains that help sustain the lush landscapes that Palmerston North is known for.
In May, Palmerston North experiences a noticeable rise in humidity, reaching 82%, a peak for the month and indicative of the transitioning seasons. This increase is part of a gradual upward trend that starts in the cooler months, with April recording 77% and the humidity continuing to climb into June at 83%. This consistent moisture content not only reflects the shift towards the winter months but also influences the lush, green landscapes that characterize this vibrant region. The higher humidity in May sets the stage for a fresh, invigorating atmosphere, making it a unique time to experience Palmerston North's natural beauty.
In May, Palmerston North enjoys a moderate UV Index of 4, with a recommended burn time of about 30 minutes. As the autumn season settles in, the UV levels significantly decrease from the extreme values seen earlier in the year, such as 13 in January and February. This reduction reflects a broader trend as the warmer summer months transition into cooler weather. By June, the UV Index drops even further to a low of 2, highlighting the increasing need for sun protection as the year progresses. For those looking to stay informed about UV levels and their implications, exploring more details at Palmerston North UV Index can be quite beneficial.
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As May settles in Palmerston North, the sunshine hours begin to dwindle, with the month recording 207 hours of radiant light. This marks a notable decline from the vibrant days of the earlier months, particularly January and November, where the sun graced the area with 281 and 302 hours respectively. After a steady decline from April’s 232 hours, May's decrease is indicative of the gradual transition towards the colder winter months. Despite this dip, the forecast for the upcoming months reveals that the sun will continue to re-emerge in a brighter fashion as spring approaches, promising a warm return of 278 hours in October. Such trends highlight the dynamic nature of Palmerston North’s climate, creating an ever-changing landscape for both residents and visitors alike.
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, May sees a notable dip in sunny weather, with only a 35% chance of sunshine—a trend that reflects the city's shift towards winter. While the summer months of January and February boast a higher 43% chance of sun, this likelihood begins to decline through the autumn months. April maintains a still respectable 42%, but by May, the charm of clear skies wanes, suggesting the onset of cooler, cloudier days ahead. This gradual decrease continues into June, which sees its lowest point at 25%. As residents prepare for the winter chill, May offers a brief transition, blending the remnants of autumn's sunshine with the approaching grey of winter.
In Palmerston North, New Zealand, the daylight duration gradually diminishes as autumn progresses into May, showcasing a clear seasonal trend. Beginning with a generous 14 hours of light in January, the days steadily shorten, dropping to 10 hours by April. As May arrives, daylight continues to wane, reaching 9 hours, which remains consistent through June and July. However, a shift occurs as winter gives way to spring: daylight begins its ascent once more, climbing to 10 hours in August and continuing to grow, culminating in 14 hours again by December. This rhythmic cycle highlights the interplay between the seasons, with each month bringing a unique light experience to the vibrant city.
In May, Palmerston North experiences a refreshing shift in wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), mirroring the gusts of January and August. This month showcases a slight revival after a gradual decline in the preceding months. The wind, while stronger than earlier in the autumn, prepares the city for the briskness of winter ahead. Surprisingly, the figures indicate a solid consistency, as May’s winds align with those recorded in the peak summer and early spring, creating an invigorating atmosphere that beckons outdoor enthusiasts to revel in the rejuvenating breezes before the colder months settle in.
Weather in Palmerston North varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Palmerston North, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a mild maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This month sees a higher level of precipitation at 78 mm (3.1 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels reaching 82%. In contrast, January is warmer, with temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). Although it experiences slightly less precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, the humidity is lower at 75%. For a detailed look at what to expect, visit Palmerston North weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May to that of February, several distinct differences emerge. May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), while February boasts significantly warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). However, February also sees higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 29°C (84°F) compared to May's maximum of 21°C (69°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in May at 78 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days, while February has 66 mm (2.6 in) over just 7 days. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with May at 82% and February at 76%. For more specific details about February weather in Palmerston North, you can check Palmerston North weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, we see notable differences. May features a cooler temperature range with minimums around 0°C (33°F) and averages of 12°C (54°F), while March is warmer, with minimums starting at 6°C (43°F) and average temperatures reaching 17°C (63°F). Although both months receive similar amounts of precipitation—78 mm in May and 82 mm in March—March tends to be slightly drier, with lower humidity at 75% compared to 82% in May. For a detailed overview of March weather, you can check out Palmerston North weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, we see a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. April experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum of 25°C (78°F). In contrast, May's temperatures drop, featuring a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 21°C (69°F). Additionally, April tends to be wetter, receiving 118 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days, while May has less rainfall at 78 mm (3.1 in) across 10 days. Although May is cooler and drier, both months maintain a relatively high humidity, with May at 82% and April at 77%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can refer to Palmerston North weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, we can observe some notable differences. May typically has a higher average temperature of 12°C (54°F) compared to June’s 10°C (51°F), with maximum temperatures also being warmer in May at 21°C (69°F) versus June's 19°C (66°F). However, June experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 14 days, compared to May's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain fairly similar, with May at 82% and June slightly higher at 83%. For a more detailed look at specific conditions, you can check Palmerston North weather in June.
The weather in May is generally warmer than in July, with average temperatures reaching 12°C (54°F) compared to July's average of 10°C (50°F). May also experiences a higher maximum temperature of 21°C (69°F), while July's peak is only 17°C (62°F). Both months have similar humidity levels, around 82% in May and 83% in July. However, July sees more precipitation, with a total of 100 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days compared to May's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days, making July a wetter month. For more specific details, you can check Palmerston North weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, we observe a notable shift in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences milder conditions with average temperatures of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 21°C (69°F), while August is cooler with an average of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of only 18°C (65°F). Additionally, August sees a higher rainfall total of 106 mm (4.2 in) across 17 days compared to May's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, hovering around 81-82%. For more detailed insights on August weather in Palmerston North, you can visit Palmerston North weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, we observe that both months experience mild temperatures, but with some distinct differences. May tends to have slightly warmer average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), while September's temperatures are a bit cooler, with averages from 1°C (34°F) to 20°C (68°F). Additionally, September sees higher precipitation, accumulating 114 mm (4.5 in) over about 16 days, compared to May's 78 mm (3.1 in) spread across 10 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with May at 82% and September at 80%. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns, you can check Palmerston North weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar maximum temperatures, both peaking around 21°C (69°F to 71°F), but their overall weather patterns differ significantly. In May, the average temperature is slightly lower at 12°C (54°F), with a notable humidity of 82% and 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days. In contrast, October brings a marginally higher average temperature of 13°C (55°F) but features increased rainfall, totaling 103 mm (4.1 in) across 16 days, along with a humidity level of 79%. For more detailed insights into October's weather, check out Palmerston North weather in October.
May and November weather exhibit notable differences, despite both being transitional months. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This month experiences about 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, alongside a relatively high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, November sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 85 mm (3.3 in) over roughly 13 days, with humidity at 78%. For a detailed overview of November weather, check Palmerston North weather in November.
May and December display distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night, averaging around 12°C (54°F) during the day, and reaching a maximum of 21°C (69°F). This month experiences a significant amount of rainfall, with 78 mm (3.1 in) falling over approximately 10 days and a higher humidity of 82%. In contrast, December offers milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 25°C (78°F). However, it also sees more rainfall, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, with slightly lower humidity at 75%. For a detailed look at December weather, visit Palmerston North weather in December.
May in Palmerston North heralds a transition into cooler, more humid conditions as the region bids farewell to the warmer days of summer. With an average temperature that hovers around a mild 12°C, this month contrasts sharply with the sunnier, more temperate months preceding it. Rainfall becomes more frequent, with about ten days of precipitation and a total of 78 mm, making it one of the wetter months in the year. The humidity rises to 82%, adding a noticeable chill to the air, especially during the cooler nights. For those looking to understand the broader patterns of climate in this charming city, further details can be found at Palmerston North Climate.