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.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Hokitika's climate page.
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
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 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 →
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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.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Hokitika's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full Hokitika climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
