Motueka
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Motueka Weather in May

May in Motueka brings moderate temperatures, with daytime highs of 15°C (59°F) and nights around 9°C (48°F). Quite a bit of rainfall is expected, around 134 mm (5.3 in), so pack an umbrella.

Rainfall in Motueka in May

You can typically expect 11 days of rain this month, averaging around 134 mm (5.3 in). When showers do arrive, they tend to be on the heavier side. Worth being prepared even if rain days are not that numerous.

Temperature in Motueka in May

May in Motueka brings moderate temperatures, with highs of 15°C (59°F) and nights around 9°C (48°F). This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. With lows around 9°C (48°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep.

Sunshine in Motueka in May

The area experiences a moderate amount of sunshine, with approximately 156 hours of sunlight expected. This means a decent mix of sun and overcast.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, February typically offers the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Motueka Temperature in May

Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
15°C (59°F)
Chance of Rain
36%
Precipitation
134 mm (5.3 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Sunshine
156 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Motueka Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Motueka typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 15°C (59°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 Motueka in May

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

Motueka historical weather extremes in May

Our historical data for Motueka spans 1976 to 2026, revealing these weather extremes.

  • On May 1, 2024, temperatures climbed to 30°C (86°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
  • The coldest May day was on May 28, 2002, with a maximum of 9°C (48°F).
  • The coldest night in May in Motueka was on May 27, 1988, with a minimum of -3°C (27°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 Motueka in May

The weather can swing between comfortable and chilly in May, so flexibility is key. Pack a variety of tops, at least one warm layer, and both shorts and long pants. This gives you options no matter what the day brings. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month

What To Do in Motueka 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
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Motueka 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Motueka

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.