Lake Tekapo Weather in May
Thinking of visiting Lake Tekapo in May? Expect low temperatures reaching 10°C (50°F) during the day, dropping to 2°C (36°F) at night, and note that quite a bit of rainfall is likely.
Rainfall in Lake Tekapo in May
Typically around 9 days of rainfall are expected, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) for the month. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in Lake Tekapo in May
Daytime temperatures in Lake Tekapo reach 10°C (50°F) in May, dropping to 2°C (36°F) at night. Expect a cold feel throughout the day, not just in the mornings and evenings. Warm layers are essential. Nights drop to 2°C (36°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, May may not be the ideal month to visit Lake Tekapo. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
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 Lake Tekapo's climate page.
Lake Tekapo Temperature in May
Min Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Max Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Chance of Rain
29%
Precipitation
111 mm (4.4 in)
Rainy days
9 days
Daily Historical Temperatures
35-year average (1991-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Lake Tekapo typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 10°C (50°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 4°C (39°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
35-year average (1991-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather for Lake Tekapo in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Lake Tekapo spanning 49 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Lake Tekapo historical weather extremes in May
Based on weather observations in Lake Tekapo between 1991 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.
- The warmest day in May was on May 4, 2002, with a maximum of 25°C (77°F).
- The lowest daytime temperature in May was 3°C (37°F), recorded on May 25, 2015.
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in May was -8°C (18°F) (May 26, 2014).
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 Lake Tekapo 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. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho.What To Do in Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo's climate page.
See the full Lake Tekapo climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
