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Haast – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Haast in West Coast 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.

Haast
Haast © By Stewart Nimmo, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.4°C
Today
16.3°C
Yesterday
16.2°C
A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Haast: 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 February 27 to March 29

While water temperatures in Haast declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Haast will be 13.3°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 2216.8°C15.8°C
Mar 2316.4°C15.8°C
Mar 2416.2°C16.3°C
Mar 2516.5°C15.3°C
Mar 2616.4°C15.3°C
Mar 2716.1°C15.5°C
Mar 2816.5°C15.3°C
Mar 2916.3°C15.5°C
Mar 3016.4°C15.5°C16.4°C
Mar 3115.0°C16.0°C
Apr 116.0°C15.5°C
Apr 214.0°C15.1°C
Apr 314.0°C14.6°C
Apr 412.0°C14.2°C
Apr 512.0°C13.7°C
Apr 612.0°C13.3°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 Haast 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

Haast is a small settlement in South Westland on the West Coast of the South Island, near the mouth of the Haast River and facing the Tasman Sea. Sea temperatures here reflect the cool, wild nature of this remote coastline. 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 wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 12–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 15–18°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still see 14–17°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January13°C16°C19°C
February13°C17°C20°C
March13°C16°C19°C
April12°C15°C17°C
May10°C13°C16°C
June8°C11°C14°C
July7°C10°C12°C
August8°C10°C11°C
September8°C10°C12°C
October9°C12°C15°C
November10°C13°C16°C
December12°C15°C18°C

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

Haast: Weather Forecast

March 30

11°C / 16°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 74% | wind: 18 kmh

March 31

13°C / 15°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 71% | wind: 4 kmh

April 1

12°C / 16°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 4 kmh

April 2

12°C / 17°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 71% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed along the Haast coastline, but conditions are often energetic and can be demanding. The beaches are long, largely undeveloped and fully exposed to Tasman Sea swells. Waves, strong currents and shifting river mouths are common, and weather can change quickly. There are no regular lifeguard patrols, so swimmers need to carefully assess the sea state before entering. On calm summer days, short swims can be refreshing for confident swimmers used to cooler water temperatures. Outside the warmer months, thermal gear is strongly recommended. Haast offers dramatic scenery and a sense of remoteness, but the ocean environment should always be approached with caution and respect.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Haast Beach

⭐ 3/5
17.4°C

Smoothwater Bay

⭐ 3/5
15.6°C

Lake Pukaki Point

⭐ 1/5
16.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Haast today?
Sea water temperature in Haast in the Tasman Sea today is 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Haast during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Haast typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Haast during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Haast typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Haast during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Haast typically ranges from 8°C to 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Haast during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Haast typically ranges from 7°C to 14°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Haast area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Haast area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Haast?
Some of the closest surf spots near Haast include: Haast Beach, Smoothwater Bay.