Māhia – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Māhia in Hawke's Bay. 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

16.2°C

Today

16.2°C

Yesterday

16.4°C

A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Māhia: 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 April 14 to May 14

Water temperatures in Māhia 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 Māhia will be 16.6°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
May 6	16.3°C	16.8°C
May 7	16.3°C	16.8°C
May 8	16.4°C	16.8°C
May 9	16.3°C	17.0°C
May 10	16.3°C	17.0°C
May 11	16.4°C	16.8°C
May 12	16.4°C	16.5°C
May 13	16.2°C	16.8°C
May 14	16.2°C	16.8°C	16.2°C
May 15		17.5°C	16.3°C
May 16		17.0°C	16.3°C
May 17		17.3°C	16.4°C
May 18		17.0°C	16.4°C
May 19		16.5°C	16.5°C
May 20		16.8°C	16.6°C
May 21		17.0°C	16.6°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 Māhia 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

Māhia, on the eastern edge of Hawke’s Bay, looks out over the Pacific Ocean and is well known for its open beaches, rocky points and clear coastal water. Sea temperatures here follow a typical east coast pattern. In winter, from June to August, the water usually sits around 13–15°C, which feels pretty brisk and is best suited to surfers or confident swimmers in wetsuits. Through spring it gradually warms, reaching 16–18°C by November. Summer brings the most comfortable conditions, with water temperatures generally ranging from 19–22°C between December and March. Early autumn can still hold around 18–20°C, especially after long settled spells.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	17°C	19°C	22°C
February	17°C	20°C	23°C
March	18°C	20°C	21°C
April	17°C	19°C	21°C
May	15°C	17°C	19°C
June	14°C	16°C	17°C
July	12°C	15°C	16°C
August	12°C	14°C	16°C
September	12°C	14°C	17°C
October	12°C	15°C	18°C
November	14°C	16°C	19°C
December	15°C	18°C	21°C

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

Māhia: Weather Forecast

May 15

12°C / 14°C

light rain

humidity: 82% | wind: 14 kmh

May 16

12°C / 13°C

light rain

humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

May 17

13°C / 14°C

light rain

humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Māhia’s beaches, and during calm summer days it can be a great spot for a dip, snorkelling or bodyboarding. However, the coastline is exposed to ocean swells, and rips can form, particularly on surf beaches. It’s important to choose sheltered areas when possible and swim between the flags if lifeguards are present during the peak holiday period. Outside of summer, cooler water temperatures and more changeable conditions mean most people will prefer a wetsuit. On clear, settled days, though, the water is often clean and inviting, making Māhia a rewarding place for ocean swimming for those prepared for typical east coast conditions.