Hokitika
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Hokitika Weather in May

Hokitika in May averages 14°C (57°F) during the day and 8°C (46°F) at night. May is part of the rainy season, so frequent rainfall is typical.

Rainfall in Hokitika in May

As part of the rainy season, Hokitika sees around 17 days of rain in May, with an average of 274 mm (11 in). The rain this month falls heavily when it arrives, so waterproofs are worth keeping handy.

Temperature in Hokitika in May

In May, expect moderate temperatures in Hokitika, with highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F) at night. Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. Nights drop to 8°C (46°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet.

Sunshine in Hokitika in May

The area enjoys a moderate level of sunlight, with around 122 hours. It's a good balance between sunny and rainy days.

Wind Speed in Hokitika in May

Wind speeds average 2 m/s (4 knots) during May. At this speed, expect light breezes that you can feel on your face and cause leaves to rustle gently. Since this is an average, some days are calmer with barely any wind while others have more noticeable gentle breezes.

Average water temperature in May

The water temperature is 14°C (57°F), chilly, but perfectly fine for a swim if you're not too sensitive to cold water. A short wetsuit can make longer sessions more comfortable.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. February typically offers the best weather for Hokitika.

Hokitika Temperature in May

Min Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Max Temperature
14°C (57°F)
Water Temperature
14°C (57°F)
Chance of Rain
57%
Precipitation
274 mm (11 in)
Rainy days
17 days
Humidity
84%
Windspeed
2 m/s (4 knots)
Sunshine
122 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Hokitika Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Hokitika - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Hokitika typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 14°C (57°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 6°C (43°F) to 9°C (48°F).

Average temperatures in May

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in May

Historical weather records for Hokitika in May

Browse day-by-day weather records for Hokitika spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Hokitika historical weather extremes in May

Based on weather observations in Hokitika between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.

  • The warmest day in May was on May 1, 2011, with a maximum of 25°C (77°F).
  • Hokitika experienced its chilliest May day on May 15, 1979, reaching only 6°C (43°F).
  • Hokitika registered its coldest May night on May 29, 2013, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F).

Best Places in New Zealand in May

Find out more about the weather in New Zealand and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of New Zealand in May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Hokitika in May

The weather can be unpredictable in May, so pack clothes you can easily mix and match. You could bring jeans, other long pants, and a few t-shirts. A light jacket or light sweater will be pleasant for the cooler moments. Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. With water temperatures around 14°C (57°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in Hokitika in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    5/10
  • Walking
    5/10
  • Camping
    3/10

Hokitika 3-Day Forecast

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.