Weather in Auckland in May

How May compares

May is the 7th warmest month of the year in Auckland. Against London's average high of 16.6°C in May, Auckland is 0.0°C warmer by day and 3.9°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in May

The typical May day in Auckland peaks at 16.6°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 18.8°C or more. Days over 25°C are rare. Nights average 12.2°C; one night in ten drops to 9.2°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings - it is genuinely cool after dark. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest May day here reached 21.5°C (2016-05-05) and the coldest night 4.6°C (1992-05-31).

Rain in May

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 11 days with 1 mm or more, 95 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest May was 2011 with 161 mm, the driest 2007 with 26 mm. Humidity averages 82%.

Sea temperature in May

The sea averages 17.3°C - too cold for most (under 18°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 16.4°C to 17.8°C. For the warmest sea here, come in February (21.2°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.3 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 10.0 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 07:12 and sets about 17:22 local time in mid-May. Average cloud cover is 57%.

Is May a good time to visit Auckland?

May is not the strongest month here: mild days and frequent rain. The best months for Auckland on our scoring are February, January, March.

Mild days, cooler evenings and cold water

May's average daytime high matches London's, so the long journey does not buy you warmer afternoons. Walking around should be comfortable with adjustable layers, though sitting outside can call for an extra layer. The warmer days reach 18.8°C or more, but that is still mild rather than hot. After dark, the average low is 12.2°C, with colder nights dropping to 9.2°C or below, so pack something warmer for evenings rather than relying on a light shirt. The sea averages 17.3°C and is cold for swimming. If regular, comfortable sea swims are central to your holiday, May is a poor fit; time beside the water is a more realistic focus than time in it.

Leave room for rain in your plans

Rain is the main compromise: about 11 days have measurable rainfall, so a waterproof jacket deserves space in your luggage. That does not mean every wet day is a write-off, but it does make a rigid outdoor itinerary less appealing. Keep indoor alternatives available and use dry spells for longer walks. There are about 4.3 hours of sunshine within 10 hours of daylight each day, so do not expect consistently bright skies or long, light evenings. Put outdoor plans into the daylight window and keep their timing flexible. May works best if you enjoy a city break without needing sunshine to make each day worthwhile.