Whanganui Weather in May
May in Whanganui brings moderate temperatures around 16°C (61°F) during the day, dropping to 10°C (50°F) at night, with quite a bit of rainfall expected, averaging around 98 mm (3.9 in) for the month.
Rainfall in Whanganui in May
This month experiences about 14 days of rain according to historical data, averaging 98 mm (3.9 in). Expect a fairly normal spread of rainfall this month, with no particular pattern of very heavy or very persistent showers.
Temperature in Whanganui in May
Whanganui in May gets highs of 16°C (61°F) during the day and drops to 10°C (50°F) at night. Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. Nights cool down to 10°C (50°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.
Sunshine in Whanganui 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.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Whanganui's climate page.
Whanganui Temperature in May
Min Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Max Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
98 mm (3.9 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
86% *
Sunshine
110 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
*
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Whanganui typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 16°C (61°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°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 for Whanganui in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Whanganui spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Whanganui historical weather extremes in May
Based on weather observations in Whanganui between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.
- The hottest May day on record in Whanganui reached 22°C (72°F) (May 7, 2026).
- Whanganui experienced its chilliest May day on May 9, 1992, reaching only 2°C (36°F).
- The coldest night in May in Whanganui was on May 30, 2012, with a minimum of -4°C (25°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 →
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What to Wear in Whanganui in May
For Whanganui in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool 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.What To Do in Whanganui in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit New Zealand, check out our Whanganui's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Whanganui climate overview or explore weather in New Zealand.
