Maketu – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Maketu in Bay of Plenty 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.

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.9°C

Today

19.1°C

Yesterday

19.0°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Maketu is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Maketu: 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

From April 14 to May 14

Water temperatures in Maketu 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 Maketu will be 17.9°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	19.0°C	18.8°C
May 7	18.9°C	18.5°C
May 8	19.0°C	18.3°C
May 9	19.0°C	18.3°C
May 10	19.1°C	18.5°C
May 11	19.1°C	18.5°C
May 12	19.1°C	18.5°C
May 13	19.1°C	18.3°C
May 14	18.9°C	18.3°C	18.9°C
May 15		18.3°C	18.8°C
May 16		18.3°C	18.6°C
May 17		18.8°C	18.5°C
May 18		17.5°C	18.3°C
May 19		18.0°C	18.2°C
May 20		17.5°C	18.1°C
May 21		18.0°C	17.9°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 Maketu 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

Maketu, on the eastern side of the Bay of Plenty, sits where the Kaituna River meets the Pacific Ocean. The coastal water temperature here follows the typical pattern for the region, with relatively mild conditions in summer compared to much of Aotearoa. From January through March, sea temperatures usually range between 19–22°C, which most locals find comfortable for swimming and time in the surf. During spring and autumn, the water generally sits around 16–19°C, still suitable for a swim, although it can feel a bit cool at first. In winter, temperatures often drop to about 13–15°C, making the water noticeably brisk and better suited to confident swimmers or those wearing wetsuits.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	18°C	21°C	24°C
February	19°C	21°C	24°C
March	18°C	21°C	23°C
April	17°C	20°C	22°C
May	16°C	18°C	20°C
June	14°C	17°C	18°C
July	13°C	15°C	17°C
August	13°C	15°C	16°C
September	13°C	15°C	17°C
October	13°C	15°C	17°C
November	14°C	17°C	20°C
December	16°C	19°C	22°C

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

Maketu: Weather Forecast

May 15

9°C / 16°C

clear sky

humidity: 74% | wind: 14 kmh

May 16

8°C / 16°C

clear sky

humidity: 71% | wind: 14 kmh

May 17

10°C / 16°C

overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 72% | wind: 11 kmh

May 18

11°C / 17°C

clear sky

humidity: 73% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Maketu Beach and is popular in settled weather, particularly over summer when both air and sea temperatures are warmer. As an open surf beach, conditions can include waves and occasional rips, especially after strong onshore winds or larger swells. The nearby estuary and river mouth also influence currents, so swimmers should take care and assess conditions before heading in. On calm summer days, the combination of moderate water temperatures and wide sandy shoreline makes Maketu an appealing spot for a relaxed dip in the Pacific.