Cape Palliser – current water temperature and swimming conditions

Water Temperature in Cape Palliser: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

❌ This is very cold water, causing an immediate cold shock response for most people. Swimming is not recommended without a wetsuit, and even with protection, time in the water should be limited. These temperatures are typically suited only to trained or well-prepared swimmers.

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

Water temperatures in Cape Palliser 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 Cape Palliser will be 12.2°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

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

Cape Palliser sits at the southern tip of the North Island in the Wellington Region, where the Pacific Ocean meets Cook Strait. Sea temperatures here are influenced by strong tidal flows and winds funnelled through the strait. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 10–13°C, which feels very cold and is usually only comfortable for surfers or swimmers in full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures rise gradually to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still hold at 15–17°C before cooling again as winter approaches.