Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Hamilton, New Zealand, presents a charming blend of mild temperatures and refreshing rainfall. With a maximum temperature reaching 22°C (71°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), the month offers a comfortable climate ideal for exploring the picturesque surroundings. However, the thermometers can drop to a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F), so dressing in layers is advisable. A total of 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation, spread over 11 days, contributes to the region's lush greenery, and the humidity hovers around 79%, adding to the crisp, invigorating air. May captures the essence of autumn with tranquil beauty and inviting weather for outdoor enthusiasts.
May marks a notable transition in Hamilton, New Zealand, as temperatures begin to dip in preparation for winter. The month starts with a minimum of -2°C (29°F), which is a significant drop from the milder temperatures of April, while the average settles at around 13°C (55°F). Daytime highs still reach an inviting 22°C (71°F), offering moments of warmth despite the cooler nights. This fluctuation indicates a shift from the comfortable warmth of late summer and early autumn to the chillier conditions of mid-winter, creating an enticing contrast that highlights Hamilton's diverse climate. As May progresses, one can expect the landscape to transform into a picturesque autumn scenery, making it a picturesque time to experience the region’s natural beauty.
In May, Hamilton, New Zealand, experiences a notable amount of rainfall, with 107 mm (4.2 in) recorded over 11 days. This level of precipitation reflects a slight decrease from the previous month, April, which saw even higher totals at 117 mm (4.6 in). The trend reveals a consistent pattern of increasing rainfall from the summer months through to autumn, peaking in July with 131 mm (5.1 in). As May transitions into the cooler, wetter months ahead, the steady precipitation underscores the region's shift towards the winter season, while still retaining a balance of sunny days interspersed with rainfall. Overall, May serves as a pivotal moment in Hamilton's climatic calendar, marking the onset of winter with significant yet manageable precipitation levels.
In May, Hamilton, New Zealand, experiences a noticeable rise in humidity, averaging 79%, marking a shift as temperatures begin to cool. Compared to the preceding months, where humidity levels hover around 73% to 75%, May stands out as the start of the wetter season. As late autumn sets in, the increasing humidity continues into June and July, both of which register even higher levels, reaching 81% and 82% respectively. This trend highlights Hamilton's transition into its cooler months, where the air becomes heavier and the lush landscape thrives, setting the stage for refreshing winter rains ahead.
In May, Hamilton, New Zealand experiences a noticeable shift in UV exposure, with the UV Index dropping to 4, categorized as moderate. This marks a decline from the earlier months, where values peaked at extreme levels of 14 in January and February. As the burn time increases to 30 minutes, residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors with a lower risk of sunburn compared to the scorching summer months. This trend of decreasing UV intensity continues into June and July, maintaining a moderate level. As autumn progresses, it's crucial to stay informed and protect your skin; for more information, visit Hamilton UV Index.
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In Hamilton, New Zealand, the month of May sees a gentle decline in sunshine hours, offering 203 hours of radiant daylight. This dip follows the vibrant summer months of January through April, where the city enjoys an impressive average of over 260 hours of sunshine. As temperatures begin to cool down and autumn sets in, the lighter days of May signal a transition towards the winter months. Notably, June marks the lowest point of the year with only 175 hours of sun, yet the gradual increase in sunshine begins again in late August, culminating in a festive revival with November's generous 289 hours. This cyclical pattern reflects Hamilton's character as it gracefully shifts from one season to the next, each month offering its own unique charm and beauty.
In Hamilton, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather shows some intriguing trends throughout the year. January kicks off summer with a 47% chance of sunshine, creating a bright start to the year. However, as the seasons transition, this percentage begins to wane, with May recording a 38% chance—slightly lower than the preceding months of March and April, both at 40%. This downward trend continues into the cooler months, culminating in June with just 32% of sunny days, the lowest of the year. As the spring approaches, the chance of sunshine remains relatively modest, hovering around the mid to high 30s. Thus, while those hopeful for sunny May days in Hamilton may find some gleaming moments, they should also be prepared for the typical unpredictability of transitioning into winter.
As the seasons transition in Hamilton, New Zealand, the daylight duration undergoes a noticeable shift. In January, residents bask in approximately 14 hours of sunlight, gradually tapering off to 10 hours by May. This decline reflects the approach of winter, with June and July offering the shortest days at just 9 hours. However, as spring arrives in August, daylight begins to stretch once more, reaching 10 hours, before blossoming back to 14 hours in December. The cyclical nature of daylight emphasizes the region's dynamic seasonal changes, inviting residents to embrace both the long summer days and the cozy, shorter winter periods.
In Hamilton, New Zealand, the winds in May provide a refreshing transition into winter, with an average wind speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph), matching January's breeziness. As the seasons progress, the wind speeds tend to increase; from the mild gusts of early months to a noticeable uptick in late winter. June continues the trend with the same average speed, setting the stage for a gradual increase into July and August, which see the winds picking up further. Interestingly, while May holds steady with consistent breezes, it hints at the more robust winds to come, indicating a shift towards a blustery winter environment that characterizes the latter part of the year.
Weather in Hamilton varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Hamilton, 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 -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (55°F) and can reach a maximum of 22°C (71°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over about 11 days, along with higher humidity at 79%. In contrast, January features a milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 8°C (47°F), averaging 20°C (68°F), and peaking at a warm 29°C (85°F). Precipitation is less frequent, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 6 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 75%. For more details, you can visit Hamilton weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. May experiences cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -2°C (29°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), while February boasts milder temperatures that range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to an average of 20°C (68°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). In terms of precipitation, May receives more rainfall at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days compared to February's 81 mm (3.2 in) over 9 days. Furthermore, humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 79% compared to February's 73%. For more specific details about February weather, you can check Hamilton weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, March experiences warmer temperatures overall, with an average of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F), while May has a cooler average of 13°C (55°F) and max temperatures peaking at 22°C (71°F). Additionally, March sees slightly less rainfall, with 94 mm (3.7 in) over 10 days compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are also lower in March at 73%, versus May's higher humidity of 79%. For a more detailed look, check out Hamilton weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we notice a distinct shift in temperature and humidity. April features slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 15°C (60°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), whereas May experiences cooler conditions, averaging 13°C (55°F) and peaking at 22°C (71°F). Additionally, April has a higher minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) compared to May's chilly -2°C (29°F).
Precipitation levels remain relatively similar, with April receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) and May slightly less at 107 mm (4.2 in), both occurring over 11 days. Notably, May has a higher average humidity at 79%, compared to April's 73%. For more information on April's weather specifics, you can visit Hamilton weather in April.
In May, the weather features a more comfortable average temperature of 13°C (55°F), with daily highs reaching up to 22°C (71°F). Comparatively, June sees a slight dip in temperatures, with an average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), indicating a cooler transition into winter. Despite the minimal difference in precipitation levels—107 mm (4.2 in) in May and 104 mm (4.1 in) in June—June has one additional day of rain, totaling 12 rainy days. Humidity also increases slightly from 79% in May to 81% in June, contributing to a generally damp feel as the month progresses. For more detailed insights, check out Hamilton weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 22°C (71°F). It also experiences a total precipitation of 107 mm (4.2 in) over about 11 days, with a humidity level averaging 79%. Conversely, July presents a cooler climate with minimum temperatures dropping to -3°C (27°F), averaging 10°C (50°F) and reaching a maximum of only 18°C (65°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 131 mm (5.1 in) across 13 days, accompanied by a marginally higher humidity of 82%. For a more detailed look at July weather, visit Hamilton weather in July.
In comparing the weather of May and August, we can observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May typically enjoys warmer temperatures with an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 22°C (71°F), while August experiences cooler conditions with an average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). Additionally, August sees a higher level of precipitation, totaling 149 mm (5.9 in) over 16 days, compared to May's 107 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days. Despite the slight difference, both months share the same level of humidity at 79%. For more detailed information about the weather in August, you can visit Hamilton weather in August.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a pleasant high of 22°C (71°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, along with high humidity levels of 79%. In contrast, September introduces slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums at 0°C (32°F) and maximums around 20°C (68°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). The month is rainier, with 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread across 15 days, while humidity levels remain fairly similar at 77%. For a more detailed look at September's weather, visit Hamilton weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar average temperatures and total precipitation; however, the nuances in their weather patterns make each month unique. In May, temperatures can dip as low as -2°C (29°F), while October starts with slightly milder minimums at 3°C (37°F). Both months share a maximum temperature of around 22°C (72°F), but May tends to be a bit cooler overall, with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F) compared to October's 14°C (57°F).
Precipitation levels are consistent, with both months receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) of rain, though October experiences precipitation on 14 days, slightly more than May's 11 days of rain. Humidity levels in October are slightly lower at 76%, compared to May's 79%. For more detailed information about the climate during this time, you can check Hamilton weather in October.
May and November exhibit distinct weather patterns, highlighting a transition in seasonal climates. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a comfortable high of 22°C (71°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences higher precipitation levels at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days and a humidity of 79%. In contrast, November brings milder temperatures, with nighttime lows of 6°C (43°F) and daytime highs reaching 27°C (80°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). Precipitation in November is slightly lower at 87 mm (3.4 in), spread over 12 days, and humidity is a touch lower at 75%. For more details, you can check Hamilton weather in November.
May and December in Hamilton showcase distinct weather patterns. May tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a low of -2°C (29°F) to a high of 22°C (71°F), accompanied by higher humidity at 79% and 107 mm of rainfall over approximately 11 days. In contrast, December is milder, boasting minimum temperatures of 5°C (42°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), with slightly lower humidity at 74%. The precipitation in December is marginally higher at 112 mm, distributed over 13 days. For more detailed insights, check out Hamilton weather in December.
As May rolls in, Hamilton experiences a notable shift in weather, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity, averaging around 13°C (55°F). This month sees a blend of crisp air and a fair share of rain, with 107 mm of precipitation spread over 11 days. Compared to the warmer months earlier in the year, May’s climate offers a refreshing change, signaling the transition towards winter. It’s the perfect time to cozy up indoors, yet still enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons in this vibrant city. For a detailed look at Hamilton's yearly climate trends, visit Hamilton Climate.