Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Whangarei, New Zealand brings a delightful mix of mild temperatures and refreshing rainfall, perfect for cozy indoor activities. The maximum temperature can reach up to 22°C (72°F), while the average sits comfortably at 15°C (59°F), and nighttime temperatures can dip to 4°C (40°F). With 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain distributed over 8 days, expect some wet weather, contributing to a lush, green landscape. The humidity level often hovers around 77%, adding to the fresh, invigorating atmosphere that characterizes this time of year.
In Whangarei, New Zealand, the month of May marks the transition into cooler temperatures, with minimums dipping to 4°C (40°F) and averages settling around 15°C (59°F). As the days grow shorter, the warmth begins to fade, showcasing a noticeable shift from the pleasant, balmy highs of 28°C (82°F) in January to a milder maximum of 22°C (72°F) in May. This gradual decline in temperature reflects the seasonal trends of the area, indicating that while winter approaches, Whangarei still offers a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. As the lush landscapes of New Zealand start gearing up for winter, May presents a perfect opportunity for visitors to experience the region’s breathtaking scenery without the summer crowds.
In Whangarei, New Zealand, May signals a transition as precipitation levels settle at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days of rain. This month typically follows April's wetter conditions, which recorded 88 mm (3.5 in), showcasing a slight decrease in rainfall. Despite this dip, May's precipitation aligns with the overall trend of autumn, reflecting the region's dynamic climate. The consistent frequency of rainfall days, coming in just shy of degrees seen in the previous month, suggests that Whangarei continues to experience a mild and manageable wet season. As winter approaches in June, where rainfall surges to 119 mm (4.7 in), May serves as a gentle precursor, preparing the landscape for the dramatic changes ahead.
May in Whangarei, New Zealand, experiences a humidity level of 77%, which marks a slight increase from the previous month. This uptick is part of a general trend where humidity begins to rise again after the drier months of March and April, which recorded 76% and 75% respectively. As the region transitions into winter, humidity spikes again in June and July, reaching 80%. Overall, the humidity in Whangarei exhibits a gentle fluctuation throughout the year, with summer months typically showcasing higher levels, peaking at 79% in January and October. This consistent pattern underscores Whangarei’s mild climate, creating a comfortable environment characterized by relatively high humidity year-round.
As May rolls into Whangarei, New Zealand, the UV Index shows a noticeable decline, dipping to 5 and categorized as moderate. This reduction in UV radiation offers a welcomed break after the extreme levels experienced during the summer months, where indices peaked at 14. In May, the average burn time is around 30 minutes, providing a safer window for outdoor activities compared to the shorter 10-minute burn time earlier in the year. The trend reflects a gradual easing of sunshine intensity, transitioning towards winter. However, even in May, it's wise to practice sun safety habits to protect your skin. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, check out the Whangarei UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May in Whangarei, New Zealand, brings a gentle transition into winter, reflected in its 219 hours of sunshine. This marks a noticeable dip from the sun-drenched months of January, February, and March, each boasting 287 hours. As the autumn months progress, April's 241 hours hints at the approaching cooler season, making May's decrease a natural continuation. Interestingly, despite this reduction, the region still enjoys more sunshine than in June and July, which see the least sunlight of the year. This trend showcases Whangarei's vibrant seasonal shifts, inviting residents and visitors alike to appreciate the unique charm of autumn as days grow shorter but still bask in brilliant daylight.
In Whangarei, the likelihood of sunny weather in May falls to a modest 35%, marking one of the lower points in the annual cycle. As the region transitions from the warmer summer months of January and February—when the chances of sunshine soar to 45% and 36% respectively—the sun's presence begins to wane. While April offers a slight uptick with 40% sunny days, May's figures are a reminder that autumn often brings cloudier skies. This trend continues into the winter months, where the chances remain relatively stable at 36% to 40%. So, if planning outdoor activities in May, it might be wise to prepare for some cloudy moments amid the occasional sunshine.
In Whangarei, New Zealand, the daylight duration gradually shifts with the changing seasons. Starting January with a generous 14 hours of daylight, the days gradually shorten, reaching 10 hours in May. This trend reflects the transition into winter, where daylight dips to just 9 hours in both June and July. As winter recedes, daylight begins its ascent again, with 10 hours returning in August and gradually increasing through spring, reaching another peak of 14 hours in December. This rhythmic pattern of daylight not only marks the passage of time but also enriches the vibrant outdoor culture of Whangarei, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor each unique season.
In May, Whangarei experiences a slight uptick in average wind speed, reaching 4.1 m/s (9 mph), which marks a transition as the region moves from the milder winds of previous months. This gentle increase hints at the changing seasons, as April's calm winds at 3.6 m/s (8 mph) give way to the approached gusts of early winter. As one observes the trends throughout the year, it becomes clear that May serves as a bridge between the stillness of late summer and the more blustery conditions that characterize the colder months to come, culminating in July's peak at 4.8 m/s (11 mph). With each passing month, the winds gradually intensify, subtly shaping the coastal landscape and inviting residents and visitors to embrace the fresh, invigorating breezes of Whangarei.
Weather in Whangarei varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Whangarei, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, May tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). In contrast, January boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F), an average of 20°C (69°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, May experiences higher precipitation, averaging 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, compared to January’s 49 mm (1.9 in) over just 5 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with May at 77% and January slightly higher at 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Whangarei weather in January.
May and February present quite different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, and humidity levels hover around 77%. In contrast, February experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 21°C (69°F), and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is slightly higher at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 9 days, and humidity remains similar at 78%. For a more detailed look at February weather, check out Whangarei weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, March tends to be warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), compared to May, which sees milder temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). Surprisingly, March also experiences slightly more precipitation at 72 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, while May has 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, suggesting that May may be drier despite its cooler temperatures. Humidity levels remain similar between the two months, with March at 76% and May at 77%. For a more detailed look at March's weather, you can check Whangarei weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May tends to be cooler, with a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), while April features higher temperatures, starting at a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and averaging 17°C (63°F). Additionally, April experiences more precipitation, totaling 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 64 mm (2.5 in) across 8 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 77%, compared to April's 75%. For more insights, you can check out Whangarei weather in April.
In May, the weather tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to an average of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, while the humidity level rests at 77%. In contrast, June experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F) peaking at 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is more significant in June, with 119 mm (4.7 in) spread over 11 wet days, and humidity rises slightly to 80%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Whangarei weather in June.
In May, temperatures are generally milder, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average high of 22°C (72°F), accompanied by 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days and a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, July experiences cooler temperatures, with the minimum dropping to 1°C (34°F) and an average high of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation also increases to 99 mm (3.9 in), with rain expected on 13 days, while humidity rises slightly to 80%. For more detailed insights on the July weather, you can visit Whangarei weather in July.
In May, the weather typically features a mild average temperature of 15°C (59°F), with maximums reaching 22°C (72°F) and minimums of 4°C (40°F). The month experiences about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, paired with a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, August brings slightly cooler conditions with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F) and maximums of 20°C (68°F), while also maintaining a minimum of 4°C (40°F). The precipitation increases to 91 mm (3.6 in) spread across 15 days, exhibiting a similar humidity level of 78%. This wetter and cooler August weather contrasts with the more stable conditions seen in May. For more details on August weather in Whangarei, you can visit Whangarei weather in August.
In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at around 22°C (72°F). The month experiences moderate rainfall, with precipitation totaling 64 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 8 days and humidity levels hovering around 77%. In contrast, September brings a slight dip in average temperature to 13°C (55°F), while the maximum stays close at 21°C (71°F). However, it sees increased precipitation of 99 mm (3.9 in) across about 13 days, with humidity slightly elevated at 78%. For a more detailed look at September weather, check Whangarei weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar average temperatures, with both months hovering around 15°C (59°F). However, October tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days, compared to May's 64 mm (2.5 in) across 8 days. Humidity is also marginally higher in October at 79%, compared to May's 77%. Both months have a minimum temperature of around 4-5°C (40°F), while the maximum temps show a slight increase in October at 23°C (74°F) versus May's 22°C (72°F). For more detailed insights, you can visit Whangarei weather in October.
May and November present distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, November boasts warmer temperatures, ranging from 8°C (47°F) to 27°C (80°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 72 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, with humidity reaching 79%. For a detailed overview, check out Whangarei weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C and an average of 15°C, while December offers a milder climate, starting at a minimum of 11°C and reaching an average of 19°C. This results in a more pleasant feel during December, especially with maximum temperatures peaking at 28°C compared to May's 22°C. Precipitation is relatively similar, with May receiving 64 mm over 8 days and December slightly lower at 59 mm over 10 days, contributing to a similar humidity level of around 77-78%. For more details on December weather specifics, you can visit Whangarei weather in December.
As May arrives in Whangarei, the weather begins to transition, offering a refreshing blend of moderate temperatures and increased rainfall. Compared to the warmer summer months, May presents a cooler average that invites cozy attire and indoor activities. With the humidity peaking at 77%, the air carries a crispness that signals the approaching winter, while 64 mm of precipitation spread over about eight days provides vital moisture to the blooming landscape. For those looking to understand more about the climate dynamics throughout the year, explore our comprehensive guide on Whangarei Climate.