The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
May in Otira brings low temperatures, with daytime highs of 10°C (50°F) and nights around 2°C (36°F). It's part of the rainy season, with 239 mm (9.4 in) of rainfall on average, so an umbrella or poncho is a good idea.
If you're planning additional trips, our weather planner can help you find destinations that match your weather preferences.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Otira - and find the best time to visit.
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Otira typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 10°C (50°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F).
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Otira spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Based on weather observations in Otira between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during 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 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).
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. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Otira climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
It is called the most beautiful walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing. The official hiking season starts late October until end of April.
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