The modified nickel hydroxide/glassy carbon electrode (MNGC) shows a stable voltammetric response even when it is stored under dry conditions. The modified electrode catalyses methanol oxidation in alkaline medium via Ni3+ species (mainly NiOOH). The mechanism of methanol oxidation changes from diffusion control at low methanol concentration to a catalytic reaction at higher methanol concentration. The effects of both scan rate and methanol concentration on the anodic peak height as well as current decay measurements demonstrate that methanol oxidation starts as NiOOH is formed on the electrode surface.