Whanganui
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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.

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
*
* Data from: Palmerston North, New Zealand (66 KM, 41 Miles).

Whanganui Weather by Month

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

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 records 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 →

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 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.

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    6/10
  • Walking
    6/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Whanganui 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Whanganui

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.