Last updated: August 31, 2025
In May, Waikanae, New Zealand experiences a delightful transition into winter, with temperatures peaking at a maximum of 17°C (64°F) and averaging around 13°C (55°F). The crisp evenings bring a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F), perfect for cozy nights. May is also notable for its wet weather, receiving approximately 131 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 14 days, fostering lush greenery in this charming coastal town. With humidity levels averaging 84%, visitors can expect a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere as they explore Waikanae's natural beauty.
As May arrives in Waikanae, New Zealand, the temperatures shift noticeably, signaling the transition into winter. The month begins with minimum temperatures dipping to 5°C (42°F), while daytime highs reach a comfortable 17°C (64°F). With an average of 13°C (55°F), May is certainly cooler than the preceding months; April's warmer embrace gives way to a more crisp atmosphere. This gradual decline in temperatures is evident as the region moves towards winter, with each passing month gradually showcasing a drop in both daytime highs and nighttime lows. The pleasant yet cooler May climate makes for a picturesque setting, perfect for enjoying the striking autumn colors that adorn the landscape.
May in Waikanae, New Zealand, typically sees a significant amount of precipitation, averaging 131 mm (5.1 in) across about 14 rainy days. This month continues the trend of elevated rainfall observed from April, which recorded 140 mm (5.5 in), suggesting a transitional phase as autumn deepens. While May's rainfall is slightly less than April's, it remains consistent with the wetter climate of the preceding months. As the season shifts, the rain contributes to lush landscapes, making Waikanae especially picturesque as it welcomes the cooler winter months. This pattern hints at ongoing moisture as the region prepares for the winters ahead, maintaining a rhythm of precipitation that sustains its vibrant environment.
In May, Waikanae experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 84%, which reflects a trend of rising moisture levels as the month transitions from autumn to winter. This uptick continues the pattern set over the previous months, where humidity gradually climbed from 80% in April. Following May, the humidity escalates further, peaking at 86% in June and July. Throughout the year, the coastal climate maintains relatively high humidity, hovering around the 80% mark, making May a key indicator of the impending winter conditions. The consistent humidity levels not only enhance the region's lush, green environment but also contribute to its unique charm and character.
In May, Waikanae experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating a more manageable sun exposure compared to the earlier months, when the index soared to extreme levels of 13 in January and February. With a burn time of 30 minutes, this is an ideal time for outdoor activities, as the risk of skin damage is significantly lower than in the peak summer months. As we transition toward winter, the UV levels steadily decline, offering a welcome respite for sun-sensitive individuals. The overall trend in Waikanae highlights a gradual decrease in UV exposure as the seasons change, culminating in a low index by June. For further insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out the detailed information on Waikanae UV Index.
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May in Waikanae, New Zealand, marks a transitional phase as the sunshine hours begin to dwindle, recording 201 hours of sunlight. This decline is part of a broader trend that sees the autumn and winter months gradually reducing daylight, with April peaking at 229 hours before May dips further. Following the vibrant summer months, where January basked in a generous 275 hours and November reached a splendid 300 hours, May serves as a reminder of the changing seasons. Despite the cooler temperatures on the horizon, Waikanae still enjoys more sunshine than the subsequent months, hinting at the lingering warmth before winter settles in, making each sunbeam in May feel cherished.
In May, Waikanae, New Zealand, experiences a notable decline in sunny weather, with only a 41% chance of sunshine. This marks a continuation of the downward trend observed since the peak of summer, where January boasts a healthy 53% likelihood of sunny days. As the region transitions from warmer months to winter, the probability gradually diminishes, falling to 28% in June and hovering lower throughout the colder months. Interestingly, even in more temperate months like March and April, the chances remain higher than in May, suggesting that locals and visitors alike should prepare for more overcast days as the month progresses. Ultimately, while May offers a mix of weather, it signals a shift towards the cooler, cloudier days ahead.
As the seasons change in Waikanae, New Zealand, the daylight duration exhibits a fascinating ebb and flow. In January, residents bask in a generous 14 hours of sunlight, but this gradually tapers off as the year progresses. By February and March, daylight reduces to 13 and 12 hours, respectively, signaling the approach of autumn. April sees a more pronounced decline, with only 10 hours of daylight, and by May, the duration reaches its low point at 9 hours—a trend that holds steady into June and July. However, as the depths of winter give way to spring, August begins the slow ascent back to longer days, peaking at 15 hours in December. This rhythmic cycle between longer summer days and the crisp, shorter winter hours creates a vibrant tapestry of light that defines the year in Waikanae.
In Waikanae during May, the average wind speed reaches 5.9 m/s (13 mph), reflecting a noticeable trend of increasing winds as the months transition into winter. Following the gentler breezes of February, which averaged only 4.6 m/s (10 mph), March and April saw a gradual uptick, setting the stage for May’s crisp gusts. This momentum continues into the winter months, with June and July returning slightly lower averages of 5.8 m/s and 5.5 m/s, respectively. Overall, May serves as a pivotal point where the winds begin to gain strength, hinting at the transformation of the landscape as the season shifts. Such wind patterns not only invigorate the atmosphere but also hint at the dynamic climatic changes that characterize Waikanae’s unique environment.
Weather in Waikanae varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Waikanae, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, we see notable differences in both temperature and precipitation. May tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), along with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) over about 14 days, along with a humidity of 84%.
In contrast, January is significantly warmer, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 10°C (49°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation is lighter in January, amounting to 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, and the humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For those looking for more specific details about January's weather, check out Waikanae weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C to a maximum of 17°C, while February enjoys warmer conditions, with lows of 10°C and highs reaching 24°C. Additionally, May experiences significantly more rainfall, averaging 131 mm over 14 days, compared to February's 106 mm across just 10 days. Humidity is also higher in May at 84%, whereas February maintains a slightly lower level at 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Waikanae weather in February.
In comparing the weather conditions of May and March, we observe significant differences in both temperature and precipitation. May tends to be cooler, with average daily temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F). In contrast, March is warmer, showcasing an average temperature range of 9°C (49°F) to 21°C (70°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, with 131 mm (5.1 in) falling over 14 days, while March sees slightly less at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are also higher in May at 84% compared to March's 79%. For more detailed information, you can visit Waikanae weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, May tends to be slightly cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), whereas April boasts a higher average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with May receiving 131 mm (5.1 in) of rain over 14 days, and April seeing a bit more rainfall at 140 mm (5.5 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, humidity levels are somewhat higher in May at 84%, compared to April's 80%. For a closer look at April weather patterns, you can visit Waikanae weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, May tends to have slightly warmer temperatures with an average of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), compared to June's average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 16°C (60°F). Both months experience similar humidity levels, with June being slightly higher at 86% compared to May's 84%. Precipitation is also comparable, with May receiving 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, while June sees slightly less at 126 mm (4.9 in) across 13 days. For more detailed insights, check out Waikanae weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, it’s evident that July is generally cooler and wetter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F) with an average of 13°C (55°F). Contrastingly, July sees slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of only 14°C (58°F). Additionally, July experiences more precipitation, with 155 mm (6.1 in) over 17 days compared to May's 131 mm (5.1 in) across 14 days, resulting in a slightly higher humidity level in July at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check Waikanae weather in July.
May and August present notable differences in weather conditions. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). While precipitation is moderate at 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, humidity remains relatively high at 84%. In contrast, August features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of just 14°C (57°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 156 mm (6.1 in) across 17 days, and humidity is marginally lower at 83%. For more detailed insights on the weather patterns, check out Waikanae weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, we see a slight drop in average temperatures. May experiences a minimum of 5°C and an average high of 17°C, while September features a minimum of 4°C and a maximum of 15°C. Both months have notable precipitation, with May receiving 131 mm over approximately 14 days and September seeing slightly more at 151 mm over 17 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with May averaging 84% and September at 83%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can check Waikanae weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, we see some notable similarities and differences. Both months experience a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F), but May has a slightly warmer average of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), compared to October's average of 12°C (54°F) and maximum of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation levels are also quite close, with May receiving 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days and October slightly less at 122 mm (4.8 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels are fairly similar, with May at 84% and October at 82%. For a more detailed look at October weather specifically, you can visit Waikanae weather in October.
May and November showcase mild temperatures, with May slightly cooler overall. In May, the minimum temperature dips to 5°C (42°F), while November starts at a higher minimum of 8°C (46°F). Both months see an average temperature around 13°C (55°F) to 14°C (57°F) and maximums close in range, with May peaking at 17°C (64°F) and November at 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels remain consistent, with each month receiving about 131 mm (5.1-5.2 in) of rain over 14 days, resulting in relatively high humidity levels—84% in May and a slightly lower 82% in November. For more details on November's weather, check out Waikanae weather in November.
May and December exhibit distinct weather patterns, with May characterized by cooler temperatures and higher humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), accompanied by a significant 131 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 14 days. In contrast, December sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 22°C (71°F), while experiencing slightly more rainfall at 159 mm (6.3 in) across 17 days. Despite the higher precipitation, December's humidity is lower at 81%, compared to May's 84%. For more details, check Waikanae weather in December.
As May graces Waikanae, it brings a nuanced weather shift, stepping away from the mild warmth of earlier months towards cooler temperatures and heightened humidity. This month's average temperatures settle in a refreshing range, contrasted by increased precipitation that can turn this time into one of the wettest periods of the year. With nearly half the month likely to experience rainfall, the lush greenery of the region flourishes, creating a picturesque backdrop. It's a month that invites cozy indoors, making it an ideal time for locals and visitors to embrace the warmth of community and indoor activities. For more insights into how Waikanae’s weather shapes the local lifestyle, check out Waikanae Climate.