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.
Wanaka Weather in May
Wanaka in May sees low daytime temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and nighttime lows of 2°C (36°F). Rainfall is fairly high this month at around 127 mm (5 in), so pack a rain jacket to stay dry.
Rainfall in Wanaka in May
Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 9 days of rain are anticipated, with 127 mm (5 in) on average. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in Wanaka in May
In May, Wanaka gets low temperatures, with highs of 9°C (48°F). Nights cool to around 2°C (36°F). Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. With overnight lows of 2°C (36°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.
Sunshine in Wanaka in May
The city usually sees around 135 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.May in Wanaka has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Wanaka Temperature in May
Min Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Max Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Chance of Rain
31%
Precipitation
127 mm (5 in)
Rainy days
9 days
Sunshine
135 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Wanaka Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Wanaka - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
30-year average (1996-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Wanaka typically drop from around 13°C (55°F) at the start of May to approximately 10°C (50°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 4°C (39°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
30-year average (1996-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather records for Wanaka in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Wanaka spanning 32 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Wanaka historical weather extremes in May
Based on 30 years of weather observations (1996-2026), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Wanaka.
- Wanaka recorded its highest May temperature of 21°C (70°F) on May 3, 2023.
- The lowest daytime temperature in May was 1°C (34°F), recorded on May 28, 2013.
- Wanaka registered its coldest May night on May 27, 2014, with temperatures dropping to -9°C (16°F).
- Peak precipitation in May occurred on May 16, 2009, when 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation was measured.
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 Wanaka in May
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Wanaka in May. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. 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.
What To Do in Wanaka in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming5/10 -
Cycling4/10 -
Walking4/10 -
Camping3/10 -
Outdoor sports4/10
Wanaka 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Wanaka
See the full Wanaka climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
Popular in May
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Auckland
18°C (64°F) Paihia
19°C (66°F) Wellington15°C (59°F) Rotorua16°C (61°F) Christchurch
15°C (59°F) Nelson15°C (59°F) Taupo15°C (59°F) Queenstown8°C (46°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand
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