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Palmerston North Weather in May

May in Palmerston North typically sees daytime highs of 16°C (61°F) and nighttime lows of 8°C (46°F). Rainfall is also possible this month, so it's worth packing an umbrella.

Rainfall in Palmerston North in May

Historically, approximately 15 days this month are expected to have rain, averaging 89 mm (3.5 in). Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.

Temperature in Palmerston North in May

If you're visiting Palmerston North in May, expect highs of 16°C (61°F) and overnight lows around 8°C (46°F). The difference between afternoon and evening temperatures is usually noticeable. Nights fall to 8°C (46°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.

Sunshine in Palmerston North in May

The area enjoys a balanced 110 hours of sunlight, ensuring it's neither too overcast nor too sunny.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, January, February and March typically offer 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.

Palmerston North Temperature in May

Min Temperature

8°C (46°F)

Max Temperature

16°C (61°F)

Chance of Rain

50%

Precipitation

89 mm (3.5 in)

Rainy days

15 days

Humidity

86%

Sunshine

110 hours

Percentage Sunshine

Palmerston North Weather by Month

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

January

22°C (72°F)View January → February

23°C (73°F)View February → March

21°C (70°F)View March → April

18°C (64°F)View April → May

16°C (61°F)View May → June

14°C (57°F)View June → July

13°C (55°F)View July → August

14°C (57°F)View August → This monthSeptember

15°C (59°F)View September → October

17°C (63°F)View October → November

18°C (64°F)View November → December

20°C (68°F)View December →

Best Time to Visit Palmerston North →

Daily Historical Temperatures

49-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Palmerston North typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 16°C (61°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

49-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 Palmerston North in May

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

Palmerston North historical weather extremes in May

Our historical data for Palmerston North spans 1993 to 2026, revealing these weather extremes.

The warmest day in May was on May 2, 2023, with a maximum of 23°C (73°F).
The lowest daytime temperature in May was 8°C (46°F), recorded on May 31, 2009.
Nighttime temperatures dropped to -3°C (27°F) on May 10, 2024, marking the coldest May night on record.

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 →

Conditions Temperatures Precipitation

Temperatures Precipitation

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).

Marker color shows the average daytime high temperature in May: blue is cold, red is hot.

Marker color shows total monthly precipitation in May: pale blue is dry, deep blue is wet.

What to Wear in Palmerston North 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. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.