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Rotorua Weather in May

Rotorua in May averages 16°C (61°F) during the day and 8°C (46°F) at night. Keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is expected this month.

Rainfall in Rotorua in May

Historically, the month has about 12 days of rain, averaging 113 mm (4.4 in) in total. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.

Temperature in Rotorua in May

May in Rotorua brings moderate temperatures, with highs of 16°C (61°F) and nights around 8°C (46°F). The difference between afternoon and evening temperatures is usually noticeable. 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 Rotorua in May

The area enjoys a balanced 145 hours of sunlight, ensuring it's neither too overcast nor too sunny.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, January 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.

Rotorua Temperature in May

Min Temperature

8°C (46°F)

Max Temperature

16°C (61°F)

Chance of Rain

40%

Precipitation

113 mm (4.4 in)

Rainy days

12 days

Humidity

87%

Sunshine

145 hours

Percentage Sunshine

Rotorua Weather by Month

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

January

23°C (73°F)View January → February

24°C (75°F)View February → March

21°C (70°F)View March → April

19°C (66°F)View April → May

16°C (61°F)View May → June

13°C (55°F)View June → July

13°C (55°F)View July → August

13°C (55°F)View August → September

15°C (59°F)View September → This monthOctober

17°C (63°F)View October → November

19°C (66°F)View November → December

21°C (70°F)View December →

Best Time to Visit Rotorua →

Daily Historical Temperatures

49-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Rotorua typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 16°C (61°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 10°C (50°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 Rotorua in May

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

Rotorua historical weather extremes in May

Based on weather observations in Rotorua between 1990 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.

The hottest May day on record in Rotorua reached 23°C (73°F) (May 1, 1995).
The coldest May day was on May 30, 2001, with a maximum of 9°C (48°F).
The coldest night in May in Rotorua was on May 30, 2012, with a minimum of -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 →

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 Rotorua 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. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.