Hicks Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

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

✅ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.

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 Hicks Bay 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 Hicks Bay will be 17.4°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

Hicks Bay, on the remote East Coast of the Gisborne Region, faces directly out to the Pacific Ocean and experiences typical eastern North Island sea conditions. Water temperatures here are relatively mild in summer compared with much of Aotearoa. From January through March, the ocean usually ranges between 19–22°C, which most locals find comfortable for swimming on warm, settled days. During spring and autumn, temperatures generally sit around 16–19°C. It’s still suitable for a dip, although the water can feel cool when you first step in. In winter, sea temperatures often fall to about 13–15°C, making the water noticeably brisk and better suited to short swims or those wearing wetsuits.