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Mangawhai – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Mangawhai in Northland 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.

Mangawhai
Mangawhai © Pran zal

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.9°C
Today
16.6°C
Yesterday
16.0°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Mangawhai is about 17°C.

Water Temperature in Mangawhai: 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 September 16 to October 16

Water temperatures in Mangawhai have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Mangawhai will be 16.1°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 815.5°C15.5°C
Oct 915.6°C15.8°C
Oct 1016.0°C15.5°C
Oct 1116.1°C15.3°C
Oct 1216.3°C15.5°C
Oct 1316.6°C15.5°C
Oct 1416.5°C16.0°C
Oct 1516.6°C15.8°C
Oct 1616.9°C15.8°C16.9°C
Oct 1715.8°C16.8°C
Oct 1815.8°C16.7°C
Oct 1915.8°C16.6°C
Oct 2015.8°C16.5°C
Oct 2116.0°C16.4°C
Oct 2215.8°C16.2°C
Oct 2316.5°C16.1°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 Mangawhai 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

Mangawhai is a coastal settlement in the southern part of the Northland Region, offering both an ocean surf beach and a sheltered harbour. Facing the Pacific Ocean, Mangawhai Heads Beach experiences typical upper North Island sea temperatures. In summer, from December through February, water temperatures generally range between 19°C and 22°C, which feels comfortable for swimming during warm, settled weather. Autumn often remains pleasant at around 18–20°C before gradually cooling. Winter temperatures usually sit between 14°C and 16°C, while spring brings a steady warming from roughly 15°C towards 18°C as air temperatures rise and fine days become more frequent.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C21°C24°C
February19°C21°C24°C
March19°C21°C23°C
April18°C20°C22°C
May16°C18°C21°C
June15°C17°C19°C
July14°C16°C18°C
August13°C15°C17°C
September13°C15°C17°C
October14°C16°C18°C
November15°C17°C20°C
December17°C19°C22°C

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

Mangawhai: Weather Forecast

October 17

7°C / 16°C
clear sky
humidity: 70% | wind: 7 kmh

October 18

8°C / 19°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 75% | wind: 4 kmh

October 19

8°C / 21°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 74% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Manghawai Heads Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
17.8°C

Mangawhai Heads Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
17.6°C

Forestry Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
15.8°C

Natural Arch

⭐ 3.5/5
18.2°C

Langs Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
16.6°C

Ding Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
16.4°C

Te Arai Point

⭐ 3.9/5
16.2°C

Waipu Cove

⭐ 5.0/5
16.3°C

Pakiri Beach

⭐ 4.2/5
16.1°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in Mangawhai, with options in both the open ocean and the calmer harbour waters. The surf beach can produce moderate to strong waves and occasional rip currents, particularly when easterly swells are running, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully. Lifeguard patrols are often present during peak holiday periods at the surf beach, providing additional safety. The harbour side, by contrast, usually offers gentler conditions with minimal surf, making it suitable for relaxed swims, especially for families. On calm summer days, Mangawhai provides a varied and appealing setting for swimming in Northland.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Black Swamp

⭐ 2/5
17.5°C

Mangawhai Heads

⭐ 3/5
17.7°C
5 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Te Arai Point

⭐ 2/5
17.8°C

Langs beach

⭐ 2/5
17.0°C

Waipu Cove

⭐ 2/5
17.5°C

Forestry

⭐ 3/5
15.7°C
14 km away 📍 Beach and point

Waipu River

⭐ 3/5
16.5°C

Pakiri beach

⭐ 3/5
17.1°C

Goat Island Reef

⭐ 3/5
17.8°C
26 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Mangawhai today?
Sea water temperature in Mangawhai in the Pacific Ocean today is 17°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Mangawhai typically ranges from 17°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Mangawhai typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Mangawhai typically ranges from 13°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Mangawhai typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Mangawhai area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Mangawhai area include: Mangawhai Heads Beach, Manghawai Heads Beach, Natural Arch, Forestry Beach, Langs Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Mangawhai?
Some of the closest surf spots near Mangawhai include: Black Swamp, Mangawhai Heads, Te Arai Point, Langs beach, Waipu Cove.