Awaroa Inlet – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Awaroa Inlet in Tasman Region. You can view recent sea temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby beaches with similar conditions, local weather information, and a summary of swimming conditions to help you assess how suitable the water is for swimming.

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.1°C

Today

16.1°C

Yesterday

16.5°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Awaroa Inlet is about 16°C.

Water Temperature in Awaroa Inlet: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.

It’s important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in settled weather. When air temperatures drop below 20°C — and sometimes even below 25°C — swimming can feel uncomfortable, even when water temperatures are relatively high.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

From April 14 to May 14

Water temperatures in Awaroa Inlet have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Awaroa Inlet will be 14.4°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date	Current	Average	Forecast
May 6	16.7°C	15.0°C
May 7	16.5°C	14.8°C
May 8	16.5°C	14.8°C
May 9	16.4°C	14.5°C
May 10	16.4°C	14.5°C
May 11	16.4°C	15.3°C
May 12	16.5°C	14.5°C
May 13	16.1°C	14.8°C
May 14	16.1°C	14.8°C	16.1°C
May 15		13.0°C	15.9°C
May 16		13.8°C	15.6°C
May 17		14.0°C	15.4°C
May 18		13.3°C	15.1°C
May 19		13.5°C	14.9°C
May 20		13.5°C	14.6°C
May 21		14.3°C	14.4°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual near-shore water temperatures in Awaroa Inlet can vary by several degrees from the values shown, particularly after heavy rain, strong southerlies, or prolonged windy conditions. Certain wind patterns can trigger upwelling, where cooler, deeper water is pushed to the surface and replaces the warmer top layer, leading to noticeable short-term changes in water temperature.

Our water temperature forecast is produced using a proprietary mathematical model that combines real-time measurements with long-term historical patterns, local weather conditions, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each coastal region. To improve accuracy, we cross-check data from nearby locations and use multiple sources, including offshore buoys, satellite-based sea surface maps, and observations provided by local authorities.

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C

25°C

20°C

15°C

10°c

5°C

0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Awaroa Inlet lies within Abel Tasman National Park in the Tasman Region, opening into Tasman Bay and influenced by tidal exchange linked to Cook Strait. The inlet is shallow and well sheltered, which often allows surface water to warm more than fully exposed coastline. In winter, from June to August, water temperatures generally range between 11–14°C, which feels cool and is usually suitable only for short swims or with a wetsuit. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 13–16°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the warmest conditions, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 18–22°C during settled, sunny spells. Early autumn can still see 17–19°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	14°C	16°C	19°C
February	14°C	17°C	19°C
March	14°C	16°C	19°C
April	12°C	15°C	17°C
May	11°C	14°C	17°C
June	10°C	13°C	16°C
July	10°C	12°C	15°C
August	9°C	12°C	14°C
September	10°C	12°C	14°C
October	10°C	13°C	15°C
November	11°C	14°C	16°C
December	13°C	15°C	18°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Awaroa Inlet: Weather Forecast

May 15

10°C / 14°C

overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 76% | wind: 7 kmh

May 16

6°C / 12°C

broken clouds: 51-84%

humidity: 80% | wind: 7 kmh

May 17

5°C / 12°C

broken clouds: 51-84%

humidity: 82% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in Awaroa Inlet and it’s a popular activity for visitors walking the Abel Tasman Coast Track or arriving by kayak or water taxi. The inlet is tidal, and at low tide large sand flats are exposed, while at high tide the water covers much of the bay. On calm summer days the shallow water can feel pleasantly warm and is often suitable for families and casual swimmers. However, tidal currents can be noticeable in channels, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully before entering. There are no regular lifeguard patrols. Outside the warmer season, thermal gear is recommended, as the water remains cool despite the inlet’s sheltered setting.