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Gore Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Gore Bay in Canterbury 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.

Gore Bay
Gore Bay © By Wildman NZ, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

10.3°C
Today
10.0°C
Yesterday
10.0°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Gore Bay is about 10°C.

Water Temperature in Gore Bay: 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

From July 28 to August 27

Water temperatures in Gore Bay have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Gore Bay will be 10.9°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
Aug 1910.1°C10.0°C
Aug 2010.0°C10.0°C
Aug 2110.0°C10.0°C
Aug 2210.1°C10.0°C
Aug 2310.0°C10.0°C
Aug 249.9°C10.3°C
Aug 2510.1°C10.3°C
Aug 2610.0°C10.3°C
Aug 2710.3°C10.3°C10.3°C
Aug 2810.3°C10.4°C
Aug 2910.5°C10.5°C
Aug 3010.5°C10.5°C
Aug 3110.8°C10.6°C
Sep 110.8°C10.7°C
Sep 210.8°C10.8°C
Sep 310.8°C10.9°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 Gore Bay 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

Gore Bay is a small coastal settlement near Cheviot in North Canterbury, facing the Pacific Ocean and backed by low cliffs and rolling farmland. Sea temperatures here reflect the cool eastern waters typical of this stretch of the South Island. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 8–11°C, which feels properly cold and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 10–13°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 14–18°C during settled, sunny spells. Early autumn can still see 13–16°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January13°C16°C19°C
February14°C17°C19°C
March12°C15°C18°C
April11°C14°C17°C
May10°C13°C16°C
June9°C12°C14°C
July9°C11°C13°C
August9°C11°C12°C
September9°C11°C13°C
October9°C11°C14°C
November11°C13°C15°C
December11°C15°C18°C

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

Gore Bay: Weather Forecast

August 28

9°C / 15°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

August 29

9°C / 14°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 63% | wind: 7 kmh

August 30

9°C / 16°C
light rain
humidity: 56% | wind: 18 kmh

August 31

7°C / 15°C
light rain
humidity: 66% | wind: 22 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Gore Bay and it’s a popular local spot during the warmer months. The beach is sandy with some areas of shingle, and it can offer reasonably manageable conditions on calm days. However, it remains open to Pacific swells, and waves and rip currents can develop depending on wind direction and tide. There are generally no regular lifeguard patrols, so swimmers need to assess the sea state carefully before entering. On fine summer days, short swims can be refreshing for confident swimmers accustomed to cooler temperatures. Outside the warmer season, thermal gear is strongly recommended, as the ocean remains brisk year-round.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Gore Bay

⭐ 3/5
10.1°C

Port Robinson

⭐ 3/5
10.8°C

Fields

⭐ 3/5
9.7°C
28 km away 📍 Beach and point

Motunau Beach

⭐ 3/5
11.0°C
30 km away 📍 Beach and point

Oaro

⭐ 2/5
11.3°C

Midshore Bay

⭐ 3/5
9.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Gore Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Gore Bay in the Pacific Ocean today is 10°C.
What is the water temperature in Gore Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Gore Bay typically ranges from 11°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Gore Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Gore Bay typically ranges from 10°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Gore Bay during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Gore Bay typically ranges from 9°C to 15°C.
What is the water temperature in Gore Bay during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Gore Bay typically ranges from 9°C to 14°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Gore Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Gore Bay area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Gore Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Gore Bay include: Gore Bay, Port Robinson, Fields, Motunau Beach, Oaro.