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Weather Comparison

Wellington vs Auckland

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Wellington: 14°CAuckland: 17°C493 km apart

May Weather: Wellington vs Auckland

MetricWellingtonAucklandBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer14°C (57°F)17°C (63°F)Auckland
Average LowHigher is milder11°C (52°F)12°C (54°F)Auckland
Rain DaysFewer is drier10 days12 daysWellington
PrecipitationLess is drier71 mm96 mmWellington
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day8h/dayAuckland
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer12Wellington
Wind SpeedCalmer is better29 km/h26 km/hAuckland

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Auckland edges ahead as the better destination in May. Auckland offers 8 hours of daily sunshine with only 12 rain days, while Wellington sees 7 sunshine hours and 10 rain days.

Wellington is on the cooler side at 14°C, requiring warmer clothing. Auckland is also comfortable at 17°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Wellington is the stronger choice in May. Auckland receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Wellington reaches an average high of 14°C (57°F) and drops to 11°C (52°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 3°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Auckland averages 17°C (63°F) for the high and 12°C (54°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Wellington receives approximately 71 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Auckland sees 96 mm over 12 rain days. That makes Wellington the drier option by 2 rain days and 25 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Wellington vs Auckland

Packing for Wellington in May

Highs of 14°C, lows of 11°C, 10 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for Auckland in May

Highs of 17°C, lows of 12°C, 12 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Pack for both: warm layers, a mid-weight jacket, long trousers, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Wellington vs Auckland

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthWellingtonAuckland
HighRainHighRain
Jan18°C8d22°C9d
Feb19°C7d23°C9d
Mar18°C8d21°C8d
Apr16°C10d19°C10d
May14°C10d17°C12d
Jun12°C12d15°C12d
Jul11°C12d14°C14d
Aug12°C13d14°C15d
Sep13°C12d15°C14d
Oct14°C12d17°C12d
Nov15°C10d18°C11d
Dec17°C11d21°C11d
14°

Wellington Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

17°

Auckland Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wellington warmer than Auckland in May?
No. In May, Auckland is warmer with an average high of 17°C (63°F) compared to Wellington at 14°C (57°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Wellington or Auckland?
Auckland gets more rain in May with 12 rain days and 96 mm of precipitation. Wellington is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Wellington or Auckland in May?
It depends on your preferences. Wellington averages 14°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 10 rain days. Auckland averages 17°C with 8 sunshine hours and 12 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Auckland. For drier weather, Wellington is the better pick.
How far apart are Wellington and Auckland?
Wellington and Auckland are approximately 493 km (306 miles) apart. Wellington is located in New Zealand (Oceania) while Auckland is in New Zealand (Oceania).
What is the best month to visit Wellington and Auckland?
For Wellington, January tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 18°C. For Auckland, January is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 22°C highs.

Compare Wellington and Auckland in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Wellington coordinates: -41.29°N, 174.78°E | Auckland coordinates: -36.85°N, 174.76°E