May weather for the South Island.
We are planning a 2-week trip to NZ, focusing on the South Island. Due to schedule limitations, the only time we can visit is around May 10-24 in 2009. We are considering hiring a rental car, but having some concerns that the weather might not be conducive to touring at that time of year.
It\'s not like I\'m unused to driving in winter weather here in the States, but on top of potential weather, you have someone who has not driven in a left-sided country either, so a little bit of a learning curve there also.
So, how difficult is it, weather-wise to get around the South Island in early-to-middle May?
Thanks!
JT
Reply to this Hello Jeffery 😊
I moved this to the Oceania forum.
Mel
Reply to this The weather by the time that you are travelling in May is going to be into the winter. Cold and rainy but if you are not planning to do much in the outdoors then it is fine. Also, the hotels are not full, so that is good also.
Recommendation, why not start you trip at the end of April.....
Reply to this TB -
Thanks for the reply.
My daughter is in college and that is the only time she can possibly go. Hitting the South Island I would say our main intent is sight-seeing with some light hiking. If it's gonna be cold and rainy, maybe I should to Australia instead, until a later date when we can hit the NZ at a more opportune time of year.
JT
Reply to this Basically, in two weeks you should expect everything as far as weather goes, probably lose a few days to rain, with bright sunny days in between. Snow is unlikely in early May, except at higher elevations and far south (e.g. Milford Sound road). Temperatures vary according to location and luck; but daytime highs probably average around 12-15 C. (55-60 F.) In short, carry a warm jacket, but touring and short hikes at that time of year is perfectly possible.
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