Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Queenstown, New Zealand is characterized by a delightful blend of crisp air and vibrant autumn hues. With maximum temperatures reaching 15°C (59°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), cool mornings give way to pleasantly mild afternoons. However, the weather can be unpredictable, as the minimum temperature may drop to a chilly -9°C (17°F). Expect 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, creating a humid atmosphere around 88%, perfect for cozy indoor activities. Embrace the seasonal change in this stunning alpine resort, where every drop of rain paves the way for breathtaking landscapes.
In May, Queenstown's weather takes a notable turn as winter approaches, with temperatures dipping significantly compared to the preceding months. The minimum temperature plunges to -9°C (17°F), while the average temperature settles at a brisk 4°C (40°F). Despite the chill, daytime highs can still reach a comfortable 15°C (59°F), offering a mix of cozy indoor vibes and refreshing outdoor adventures. This shift marks the transition from the mild autumn to the colder winter months ahead, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown draped in early frost. As the landscape begins to transform, May presents a unique charm for those ready to embrace the crisp air and stunning scenery.
May in Queenstown, New Zealand, offers a slight uptick in precipitation, with an average of 116 mm (4.6 in) falling over 13 days. This marks a continuation of the wetter autumn season, following April’s rainfall of 110 mm, and hints at the approaching winter months. Interestingly, May's precipitation flows smoothly from the month prior, maintaining the region's verdant landscapes before winter's chill settles in. As spring transitions to winter, the patterns indicate a steady commitment to moisture, paving the way for the snowy peaks that define Queenstown’s stunning backdrop. This period sets a rhythm in the weather that locals and visitors alike have come to embrace, offering a dynamic and enchanting experience of the area’s natural beauty.
As May rolls into Queenstown, New Zealand, the humidity settles at a moderate 88%, consistent with the levels seen in April and the months that follow. This slight uptick in humidity during late autumn hints at the region's lush, vibrant atmosphere, transitioning into winter. Over the year, Queenstown maintains a relatively high humidity, fluctuating between 85% and 88%, creating a moist environment that enhances the beauty of its stunning landscapes. The blend of crisp air and elevated humidity during May offers both a refreshing feel and a soft embrace, making it an enchanting time for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the area's natural splendor.
In May, Queenstown experiences a noticeable dip in the UV Index, with a reading of 3, categorized as moderate. This is a significant reduction from the extreme levels seen during the peak summer months of January and February. With a burn time of 30 minutes, sun protection is still advisable, but the risk is much lower compared to earlier months. This trend continues as the region transitions into winter, with the UV Index decreasing further in June and July. For those planning outdoor activities in May, it’s a great time to enjoy the stunning landscapes while being mindful of the sun. To stay informed about UV levels throughout the year, check the Queenstown UV Index.
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As winter approaches in Queenstown, May ushers in a noticeable shift in sunshine hours, with 178 hours illuminating the landscape. This marks a decline from the vibrant summer months, where January and February bask in the warm glow of over 250 hours of sunlight. The transition continues as spring nears, offering more daylight in September and October with 237 and 257 hours, respectively. Overall, May reflects a beautiful but quieter time in Queenstown, where the remaining sunshine invites visitors to embrace the crisp air and the enchanting emergence of autumn colors. While it may not boast the same sun-soaked days as earlier months, May's softer light still holds a unique charm, perfect for enjoying the breathtaking views and outdoor adventures that make Queenstown a year-round destination.
In May, Queenstown, New Zealand, experiences a notable decline in sunny weather, with only a 26% chance of sunshine. This trend indicates a shift from the more favorable conditions seen earlier in the year, particularly in the summer months of January and February, which enjoy chances of sun around 30% to 37%. As autumn unfolds into winter, sunshine becomes increasingly elusive, with June dipping to a mere 13%. Despite the cooler and cloudier days, May still holds its charm amidst the beautiful autumn foliage, making it a unique time to explore the area's breathtaking landscapes, even with a lower likelihood of clear skies.
In Queenstown, New Zealand, the transition into May signals a noticeable shift in daylight hours, with the sun gracing the skies for 9 hours. This marks a gradual decline from the 12 hours of daylight experienced in March and a steeper drop from the 15 hours enjoyed in January. As autumn deepens, May's shorter days foreshadow the cozy winter nights ahead in June, where daylight is at its minimum with just 8 hours. However, this trend of dwindling sunlight soon reverses, as July welcomes longer days once again, slowly easing into brighter months. The cyclic nature of daylight in Queenstown not only highlights the beauty of seasonal change but also offers a unique charm to its outdoor adventures, inviting both locals and tourists to relish the last traces of autumn's light before winter's embrace.
As May arrives in Queenstown, New Zealand, the gentle whispers of the wind begin to transition, averaging a modest 1.5 m/s (3 mph). This marks a slight dip from the breezier months that preceded it, particularly when compared to the earlier autumn winds of April. The trend showcases a gradual decrease as the region shifts into winter, with June anticipating even lighter breezes at 1.4 m/s (3 mph). Despite this decline, the steady 3 mph winds create a serene atmosphere, ideal for leisurely strolls and appreciating the stunning landscapes that this picturesque town is renowned for. As the season progresses, Queenstown’s calm airflow becomes a soothing backdrop to the vibrant autumn hues, inviting visitors to unwind amidst its breathtaking scenery.
Weather in Queenstown varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Queenstown, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, we can see notable differences in temperature and conditions. May typically experiences colder temperatures, with averages around 4°C (40°F) and highs reaching only 15°C (59°F), while January enjoys milder conditions, featuring an average of 13°C (55°F) and highs that can soar up to 25°C (78°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with May receiving about 116 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 13 days, compared to January's 110 mm (4.3 in) across 11 days. Additionally, humidity remains high in both months, hovering around 88% for May and 86% for January. For more detailed information, you can check out Queenstown weather in January.
May and February present distinct weather profiles, each with its own characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of around 4°C (40°F), and the month experiences significant precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, February enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Although February has slightly higher precipitation at 136 mm (5.4 in) over just 11 days, the humidity is a bit lower at 85%. For a closer look at February's climate, visit Queenstown weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. March typically experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 21°C (70°F). In contrast, May has a cooler overall temperature range, with a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and a milder average temperature of 4°C (40°F), reaching a maximum of only 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in May at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, compared to March’s 96 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days. The humidity in both months is similar, with May at 88% and March at 87%. For more detailed insights into the March climate, you can check Queenstown weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we observe that May generally experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 4°C (40°F) compared to April's warmer average of 7°C (45°F). The minimum temperatures in May drop to -9°C (17°F), compared to -4°C (26°F) in April, while the maximum temperatures in May reach only 15°C (59°F) versus April's 20°C (68°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with May receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, slightly edging out April's 110 mm (4.3 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains consistent at 88% for both months, creating a similarly damp atmosphere. For more detailed insights, you can check Queenstown weather in April.
In comparing the weather between May and June, it is evident that June experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a maximum of 13°C (55°F) compared to May's 15°C (59°F). The average temperature also drops from 4°C (40°F) in May to just 1°C (34°F) in June. Precipitation decreases from 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days in May to 72 mm (2.8 in) across 12 days in June, indicating slightly drier conditions. Despite the changes, humidity remains consistent at 88% for both months, contributing to a persistently cool and damp atmosphere. For more specific details on June weather conditions, you can check Queenstown weather in June.
In comparing the weather of May and July, May typically experiences slightly milder temperatures, with an average of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), while July sees cooler averages, with temperatures reaching a maximum of only 7°C (46°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F). Both months have high humidity levels at 88%, but July has a bit more precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.2 in) over about 16 days compared to May's 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days. For more detailed information, you can check out Queenstown weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, we see a notable drop in temperatures. May experiences a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), reaching up to 15°C (59°F). In contrast, August's temperatures are even lower, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 1°C (35°F), peaking at only 10°C (50°F). Additionally, May has higher precipitation, accumulating 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, compared to August, which sees 93 mm (3.7 in) over 15 days. Humidity remains relatively similar in both months, with May at 88% and August slightly lower at 87%. For more detailed climate insights during this time, you can check out Queenstown weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, both months experience chilly temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -9°C (17°F) for May and -9°C (16°F) for September, indicating a consistent cold snap at the onset of winter. However, September shows a slight decrease in average temperature, averaging 3°C (37°F) compared to May's 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is also higher in September, totaling 161 mm (6.3 in) across 14 days, compared to 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days in May. Additionally, humidity levels are fairly comparable, with May at 88% and September slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can visit Queenstown weather in September.
May and October both exhibit cool temperatures, but October tends to be slightly milder, with average temperatures reaching 6°C (43°F) compared to May's 4°C (40°F). In May, the maximum temperature is capped at 15°C (59°F), while October sees a slightly warmer maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with May receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, and October slightly less at 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days. Both months experience high humidity, but May edges out with an 88% humidity level compared to October's 86%. For a detailed look at October weather specifics, check out Queenstown weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, with May typically experiencing colder temperatures, averaging around 4°C (40°F) and reaching a maximum of only 15°C (59°F). The month often sees significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, and a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, November enjoys slightly milder temperatures, with an average of 9°C (49°F) and highs peaking at 23°C (73°F). However, it also has a higher total precipitation amount of 135 mm (5.3 in) spread over 15 days, with humidity remaining relatively high at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check Queenstown weather in November.
May and December offer contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 4°C (40°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 13 rainy days, contributing to a high humidity of 88%. In contrast, December brings milder conditions with temperatures soaring to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F). Although December is slightly wetter, with 146 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, the humidity is marginally lower at 86%. For more details on December weather in Queenstown, visit Queenstown weather in December.
As May approaches, Queenstown experiences a pronounced shift in weather, making it distinct from the preceding months. The average temperature drops, characterized by chillier days and notably colder nights, which may occasionally dip to below freezing. While the area remains lush due to reasonable rainfall—over four inches throughout the month—outdoor enthusiasts should be prepared for more gloomy and humid days, with high humidity levels around 88%. This late-autumn charm, coupled with the stunning landscape adorned in fall colors, provides a unique experience for visitors. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, explore the Queenstown Climate.