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Bay of Islands – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Bay of Islands in Northland 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.

Bay of Islands
Bay of Islands © By JamesNZguy, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

21.1°C
Today
21.1°C
Yesterday
21.1°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Bay of Islands is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Bay of Islands: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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 February 27 to March 29

Over the past month, water temperatures in Bay of Islands have stayed mostly steady, also with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Bay of Islands will be 18.4°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
Mar 2220.9°C20.0°C
Mar 2320.9°C20.0°C
Mar 2421.1°C20.3°C
Mar 2521.2°C20.0°C
Mar 2621.2°C20.0°C
Mar 2720.9°C20.0°C
Mar 2820.7°C20.3°C
Mar 2921.1°C20.3°C
Mar 3021.1°C20.3°C21.1°C
Mar 3120.0°C20.7°C
Apr 120.0°C20.3°C
Apr 218.5°C20.0°C
Apr 318.5°C19.6°C
Apr 417.5°C19.2°C
Apr 517.3°C18.8°C
Apr 617.5°C18.4°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 Bay of Islands 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

The Bay of Islands, in the Northland Region on New Zealand’s upper North Island, is a sheltered coastal area made up of numerous islands, sandy beaches and calm inlets facing the Pacific Ocean. Owing to its northern location and protection from the open ocean, sea temperatures here are relatively mild compared with much of the country. During summer, from December to February, water temperatures typically range between 19°C and 22°C, and shallow bays can warm slightly more on sunny, windless days. In autumn, the sea often remains around 18–20°C before gradually cooling. Winter temperatures generally sit between 14°C and 16°C, while spring sees a steady warming from about 15°C towards 18°C as settled weather becomes more common.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C20°C24°C
February18°C21°C24°C
March19°C21°C23°C
April17°C19°C23°C
May16°C18°C21°C
June15°C17°C19°C
July14°C16°C17°C
August13°C15°C17°C
September13°C15°C17°C
October13°C16°C18°C
November15°C17°C19°C
December17°C19°C21°C

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

Bay of Islands: Weather Forecast

March 30

16°C / 25°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 81% | wind: 7 kmh

March 31

14°C / 19°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 83% | wind: 11 kmh

April 1

15°C / 19°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 73% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

13°C / 19°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 72% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Rocky Bay Reserve

⭐ 2.5/5
21.1°C

Oneroa Bay Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
20.5°C

Tapeka Point Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
20.3°C

Kororareka Bay

⭐ 4.6/5
20.9°C

Paroa Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
21.2°C

Hobson Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
22.0°C

Wharau Road Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
22.1°C

Elliot Bay

⭐ 3.9/5
20.8°C

Bland Bay

⭐ 4.6/5
21.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed throughout much of the Bay of Islands and is popular during the warmer months. The many sheltered beaches and coves usually experience minimal surf, making conditions suitable for families and recreational swimmers when the weather is calm. However, tidal currents can be noticeable in channels between islands, and boat traffic is common in certain areas. There are not always lifeguard patrols outside main beaches, so checking local conditions is advisable. On fine summer days, the Bay of Islands offers some of the most pleasant swimming conditions in northern New Zealand.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Russell - Ocean Beach

⭐ 1/5
21.5°C

Elliot Bay

⭐ 4/5
22.0°C

Taronui Bay

⭐ 5/5
20.5°C

The Ledge

⭐ 5/5
21.9°C

Taronui Bay-Bombora

⭐ 5/5
22.1°C

Tapuaetahi

⭐ 5/5
22.0°C

Takou Bay

⭐ 5/5
22.1°C

Bland Bay

⭐ 3/5
19.8°C

Oakura Bay

⭐ 3/5
20.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Bay of Islands today?
Sea water temperature in Bay of Islands in the Pacific Ocean today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Bay of Islands during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Bay of Islands typically ranges from 17°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Bay of Islands during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Bay of Islands typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Bay of Islands during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Bay of Islands typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Bay of Islands during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Bay of Islands typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Bay of Islands area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Bay of Islands area include: Rocky Bay Reserve, Tapeka Point Beach, Oneroa Bay Beach, Kororareka Bay, Paroa Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Bay of Islands?
Some of the closest surf spots near Bay of Islands include: Russell - Ocean Beach, Elliot Bay, The Ledge, Taronui Bay, Taronui Bay-Bombora.