Temperature:

Your Favorite Locations:

Your favorites list is empty.

Kaka Point – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Kaka Point in Otago 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.

Kaka Point
Kaka Point © By Thomas Berwing, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

11.9°C
Today
12.6°C
Yesterday
11.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Kaka Point is about 12°C.

Water Temperature in Kaka Point: 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 September 16 to October 16

Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in Kaka Point have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Kaka Point will be 11.5°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
Oct 811.2°C11.3°C
Oct 911.5°C11.3°C
Oct 1011.9°C11.3°C
Oct 1111.9°C11.5°C
Oct 1211.9°C11.5°C
Oct 1312.4°C11.8°C
Oct 1412.7°C11.5°C
Oct 1512.6°C11.5°C
Oct 1611.9°C11.5°C11.9°C
Oct 1711.0°C11.8°C
Oct 1811.0°C11.8°C
Oct 1911.5°C11.7°C
Oct 2011.3°C11.7°C
Oct 2111.8°C11.6°C
Oct 2211.3°C11.5°C
Oct 2311.5°C11.5°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 Kaka Point 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

Kaka Point is a small seaside settlement in the Catlins area of the Otago Region, facing the open Pacific Ocean. Sea temperatures here reflect the cool southern waters typical of this part of the South Island. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 9–12°C, which feels very cold and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually rise to around 11–14°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 14–17°C during settled, sunny spells. Early autumn can still see 13–15°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January11°C14°C17°C
February12°C15°C19°C
March12°C14°C18°C
April11°C13°C17°C
May9°C12°C15°C
June9°C11°C13°C
July8°C10°C13°C
August8°C10°C11°C
September8°C10°C12°C
October8°C11°C13°C
November8°C12°C15°C
December10°C14°C17°C

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

Kaka Point: Weather Forecast

October 17

7°C / 13°C
clear sky
humidity: 68% | wind: 11 kmh

October 18

10°C / 17°C
clear sky
humidity: 58% | wind: 11 kmh

October 19

10°C / 17°C
light rain
humidity: 84% | wind: 11 kmh

October 20

14°C / 17°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 64% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Kaka Point Beach and it’s a popular local spot during the warmer months. The beach is sandy and relatively accessible, and on calm summer days the water can be clear and refreshing. However, it remains exposed to Pacific swells, and waves and rip currents can develop depending on wind direction and tide. In peak summer there may be lifeguard patrols at the main beach, and swimming between the flags is recommended when available. Outside the warmer season, cooler water temperatures mean most swimmers prefer thermal gear. Kaka Point offers a scenic and family-friendly coastal setting, but the ocean stays brisk year-round.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Kaka Point

⭐ 4/5
10.9°C

Cannibal Bay

⭐ 4/5
11.4°C

Catlins River Mouth

⭐ 4/5
10.9°C

Purakaunui Bay

⭐ 4/5
12.1°C

Long Point

⭐ 2/5
12.6°C
26 km away 📍 Reef and point

Papatowai

⭐ 5/5
11.2°C
32 km away 📍 Beach/river

Dunedin - Bobs Beach

⭐ 4/5
10.8°C

Dunedin - Taieri Mouth

⭐ 4/5
11.0°C
49 km away 📍 Beach/river bar

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Clutha District

Place Tags:Surf SpotCoastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Kaka Point today?
Sea water temperature in Kaka Point in the Pacific Ocean today is 12°C.
What is the water temperature in Kaka Point during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Kaka Point typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Kaka Point during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Kaka Point typically ranges from 9°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Kaka Point during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Kaka Point typically ranges from 8°C to 15°C.
What is the water temperature in Kaka Point during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Kaka Point typically ranges from 8°C to 13°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Kaka Point area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Kaka Point area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Kaka Point?
Some of the closest surf spots near Kaka Point include: Kaka Point, Cannibal Bay, Catlins River Mouth, Purakaunui Bay, Long Point.