Herbertville – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Herbertville in Manawatū–Whanganui. 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
The average sea water temperature today in Herbertville is about 16°C.
Water Temperature in Herbertville: 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
Water temperatures in Herbertville 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 Herbertville will be 14.8°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 22 | 16.9°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 16.7°C | 16.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 25 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 26 | 16.9°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 16.9°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 28 | 16.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 29 | 16.6°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 30 | 16.3°C | 17.3°C | 16.3°C |
| Mar 31 | 17.3°C | 16.1°C | |
| Apr 1 | 17.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| Apr 2 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| Apr 3 | 15.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| Apr 4 | 14.3°C | 15.3°C | |
| Apr 5 | 14.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| Apr 6 | 14.5°C | 14.8°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 Herbertville 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Herbertville is a remote coastal settlement in southern Hawke’s Bay near the boundary with Manawatū–Whanganui, facing the open Pacific Ocean. Sea temperatures here follow a typical lower east coast pattern. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 12–14°C, which feels very cold for most swimmers and usually requires a wetsuit. Through spring the ocean slowly warms to around 14–16°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the most comfortable conditions, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 18–21°C during settled weather. Early autumn can still hold at 17–19°C before steadily cooling again as winter approaches.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| February | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| March | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| April | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| May | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 16°C | 20°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Herbertville: Weather Forecast
March 30
March 31
April 1
April 2
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Herbertville Beach, but conditions can be challenging. This is an exposed and often wild stretch of coastline, with consistent surf and the potential for strong rip currents. On calm summer days, when swells are smaller and winds are light, the water can be clear and refreshing for confident swimmers. However, there are no regular patrols, so visitors need to assess the sea carefully before entering. During the cooler months, lower water temperatures and more active surf make swimming better suited to experienced locals or surfers in thermal gear. When conditions line up, though, Herbertville offers a classic, rugged east coast ocean swim in a quiet and scenic setting.
