Last updated: August 31, 2025
Wellington, New Zealand, welcomes May with a mild climate characterized by average temperatures hovering around 13°C (56°F), peaking at a pleasant 17°C (64°F) during the day and dipping to a cool 7°C (44°F) at night. Visitors can expect a scattered and cozy atmosphere, as the city experiences approximately 88 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall over 11 days this month. With humidity levels around 84%, the air carries a refreshing chill, making it the perfect time to enjoy Wellington's vibrant culture while wrapped in a light jacket. Whether it’s a stroll along the waterfront or a visit to a local café, May's weather creates an inviting backdrop for exploration.
As May settles into Wellington, New Zealand, the transition to cooler temperatures becomes evident. With minimums dipping to 7°C (44°F) and maximums reaching a comfortable 17°C (64°F), this month marks a shift from the warmer autumn days of April. The average temperature hovers around 13°C (56°F), signaling a brisk chill in the air that encourages layering up with cozy sweaters. Compared to the preceding months, May not only presents a noticeable drop in temperature but also sets the stage for the upcoming winter, which promises to be crisp and refreshing. This delightful balance of moderate warmth and invigorating briskness makes May an enjoyable time to explore Wellington’s scenic beauty.
May in Wellington, New Zealand, brings a moderate precipitation total of 88 mm (3.5 in) spread over 11 days. This month marks a slight decrease from the previous month, April, which experienced a wetter spell with 104 mm of rain. However, May still indicates a trend towards the wetter winter season, as rainfall begins to pick up in anticipation of June's average of 101 mm. With 11 days of precipitation, Wellingtonians often find themselves navigating a lush, green landscape, as the rain revitalizes the city while prompting a need for umbrellas. This pattern clearly sets the stage for the approaching colder months, highlighting Wellington's characteristic blend of coastal beauty and ever-changing weather.
As May arrives in Wellington, New Zealand, the air becomes noticeably more humid, with levels reaching 84%—a slight increase from April's 80%. This upward trend continues into the colder months, culminating in 86% humidity in June and July. Over the warmer months, from January to March, humidity remains consistent at 79%, while April marks a shift with the first significant rise. Following this pattern, humidity levels generally peak during the winter months and gradually taper off as spring approaches, staying above 80% for much of the year. This steady increase during May prepares Wellington for its cooler, damp winter, embodying the city’s characteristic maritime climate.
In May, Wellington experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, with a recommended burn time of 30 minutes. This indicates a noticeable drop from the extreme levels recorded during the height of summer in January and February, both rated at 13, where just 10 minutes of exposure could lead to burns. As we transition into cooler months, the UV levels remain lower, with April's UV Index at 7 and June dropping further to 2. This trend highlights the seasonal variation in solar intensity, reminding residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant even during autumn, though the risk is comparatively mild compared to earlier in the year. For ongoing updates and to plan your sun exposure wisely, check the Wellington UV Index.
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As May unfolds in Wellington, New Zealand, the sunshine begins to wane, with the city enjoying 207 hours of sunlight—a notable dip following the vibrant days of summer. This decrease is part of a gradual annual trend, where the sunniest months of November and December, boasting 311 and 336 hours, respectively, lead into shorter and cooler days. After the autumn months, where April sees 237 hours and March maintains 278 hours, May marks a transitional period leading into the winter months, which are characterized by diminished daylight, with June peaking at only 169 hours. The rhythm of Wellington’s sunshine serves as a reminder of nature's cycles, as the vibrant colors of autumn give way to the long shadows of winter.
As May rolls around in Wellington, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather dips to 44%, marking a continuation of the cool transition into winter. This decrease is notable when compared to the earlier months, such as January and February, which boast sunny probabilities of 61% and 48% respectively. Interestingly, while May shows a slight uptick from the more overcast June, which has only a 34% chance of sunshine, it still reflects a trend of diminishing daylight and warmth. Thus, while May may not promise a sun-soaked respite, it retains a glimmer of sunlight amidst the encroaching chill, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy Wellington's often unpredictable May weather.
May in Wellington marks a notable shift towards shorter days as the city transitions from the sun-soaked summer months into the cooler winter season. With only 9 hours of daylight, the month signifies a consistent pattern of diminishing light that began in April, where daylight decreased to 10 hours. Following the vibrant late spring months of January and February, which boast up to 14 hours of daylight, May serves as a poignant reminder of nature's cycles. Interestingly, this trend holds steady through June and July, as daylight remains at 9 hours, suggesting that Wellingtonians will need to embrace the cozy charm of longer evenings. As the year progresses, the gradual return of daylight begins in August, hinting at the promise of spring days ahead.
As May arrives in Wellington, the winds continue to blow with an average speed of 7.4 m/s (17 mph), providing a refreshing transition into winter. This month sits comfortably between the breezy conditions of the preceding months and the slightly stronger gusts expected in June, which average 7.6 m/s (17 mph). Notably, the wind often picks up momentum heading towards the end of the year; with the peak recorded in September at an impressive 8.9 m/s (20 mph), Wellington is recognized for its vibrant and ever-changing breezes. Overall, May serves as a gentle reminder of the city's spirited winds that are a hallmark of the region, creating an invigorating atmosphere that locals and visitors alike can appreciate.
Weather in Wellington varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Wellington, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, it's evident that January is generally warmer and drier. January has average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), while May offers cooler average temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F). Additionally, January experiences significantly less precipitation, with only 33 mm (1.3 in) over about 6 days, compared to May's 88 mm (3.5 in) spread over 11 days. The humidity levels are also slightly lower in January at 79%, compared to 84% in May. For more detailed information, check Wellington weather in January.
In comparing May and February weather, we see a significant difference in temperature and precipitation. February experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). In contrast, May is cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is also a factor, as February records 69 mm (2.7 in) over only 6 days, whereas May sees higher precipitation at 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 84%, compared to 79% in February. For more information, you can check out Wellington weather in February.
In comparing the weather patterns of May and March, we see some notable differences. March tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), while May's temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging between 7°C (44°F) and 17°C (64°F). Additionally, March experiences a bit less precipitation, receiving 76 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days compared to May's 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in May at 84%, compared to 79% in March. For a more detailed look at March conditions, you can check out Wellington weather in March.
When comparing the weather between April and May, we notice some distinct differences. In April, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences slightly higher precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 10 days and lower humidity at 80%. In contrast, May sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and a maximum of 17°C (64°F). Although May has less precipitation overall at 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days, it features higher humidity levels at 84%. This comparison highlights that while both months are quite wet, April tends to be milder and slightly warmer. For more detailed information about April weather, you can refer to Wellington weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimums hovering around 7°C and maximums slightly declining from May's 17°C to June's 16°C. The average temperature also sees a slight dip, from 13°C in May to 12°C in June. Precipitation increases slightly in June, with 101 mm over 12 days compared to May's 88 mm across 11 days, and humidity levels rise marginally from 84% to 86%. For a more detailed look at June's weather patterns, you can refer to Wellington weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we find that both months have similar minimum temperatures, starting at 7°C (44°F). However, May tends to be warmer overall, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), while July sees slightly cooler averages with an average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels also differ, as May experiences 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, whereas July has a higher total of 108 mm (4.3 in) spread over 13 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with May at 84% and July slightly higher at 86%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Wellington weather in July.
In comparing the weather of May and August, we can see some notable differences and similarities. May experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 13°C (56°F) compared to August's average of 11°C (52°F). However, the maximum temperatures also reflect this trend, as May peaks at 17°C (64°F) while August reaches only 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with May receiving 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days and August seeing 89 mm (3.5 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains relatively stable, with May at 84% and August at 83%. For those looking for specific details on August's climate, you can find more information at Wellington weather in August.
May and September in Wellington present similar cool temperatures, but with distinct nuances. In May, temperatures range from a low of 7°C (44°F) to a high of 17°C (64°F), average around 13°C (56°F), and feature slightly higher humidity at 84%. This month receives about 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, making it a relatively wet month. In contrast, September sees a slight dip in overall temperatures, with averages around 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (59°F), while maintaining a minimum of 7°C (44°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 85 mm (3.4 in) spread across 12 days, and the humidity remains relatively high at 83%. For more detailed insights into Wellington's climate in September, you can check out Wellington weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, we see some notable similarities and differences. May tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 7°C to a high of 17°C, while October features slightly lower averages of 6°C to 16°C. Both months experience a comparable amount of rainfall, with May receiving 88 mm and October 72 mm—each experiencing precipitation on about 11 days. Humidity levels are also quite similar, with May at 84% and October slightly lower at 82%. For a closer look at October conditions, you can check out Wellington weather in October.
In comparing the weather between May and November, we see a slight increase in temperatures during November, with minimums of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), compared to May's minimum of 7°C (44°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). November experiences a slightly lower total precipitation of 73 mm (2.9 in) over 10 days, in contrast to May’s 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days, indicating that it tends to be a bit drier. Humidity levels remain comparable, with 84% in May and slightly lower at 82% in November. For more detailed insights, you can check Wellington weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, we see notable differences in temperatures and precipitation. May features cooler temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), while December enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December, with 101 mm (4.0 in) recorded over 11 days, compared to May's 88 mm (3.5 in) over the same number of days. Despite the difference in rainfall, humidity remains relatively high in both months, with May at 84% and December slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed information about December weather, you can check Wellington weather in December.
As May unfolds in Wellington, the weather cools down significantly compared to the preceding months, embracing a transition that brings an average temperature around 13°C. With a notable increase in precipitation, this month typically witnesses around 11 rainy days, making it one of the wetter times of the year. The higher humidity level of 84% adds to the brisk atmosphere, creating a fresh yet damp environment that invites cozy indoor activities. This shift in weather patterns marks a distinct change, setting the stage for the cooler winter months ahead, while still offering glimpses of crisp, clear days. For more insights on Wellington's atmospheric trends, explore Wellington Climate.