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Mangawhai Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Mangawhai Heads 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 Heads
Mangawhai Heads © By Rsp.smith, Public Domain

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.7°C
Today
20.6°C
Yesterday
20.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Mangawhai Heads is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Mangawhai Heads: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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 February 27 to March 29

While water temperatures in Mangawhai Heads declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Mangawhai Heads will be 18.4°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
Mar 2220.4°C20.8°C
Mar 2320.5°C20.8°C
Mar 2420.5°C20.8°C
Mar 2520.7°C20.5°C
Mar 2620.8°C20.5°C
Mar 2720.6°C20.5°C
Mar 2820.6°C20.5°C
Mar 2920.6°C20.5°C
Mar 3020.7°C20.5°C20.7°C
Mar 3120.0°C20.4°C
Apr 121.0°C20.0°C
Apr 219.0°C19.7°C
Apr 319.3°C19.4°C
Apr 417.5°C19.1°C
Apr 517.3°C18.7°C
Apr 617.3°C18.4°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 Heads 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 Heads is a well-known coastal community in the southern part of the Northland Region, overlooking a long surf beach that faces the Pacific Ocean. Sea temperatures here are typical of the upper North Island and remain relatively mild by New Zealand standards. During summer, from December through February, water temperatures generally range between 19°C and 22°C, providing comfortable conditions for swimming on warm, settled days. In autumn, the sea often stays around 18–20°C before gradually cooling. Winter temperatures usually sit between 14°C and 16°C, while spring sees a steady rise from roughly 15°C towards 18°C as air temperatures increase and calmer weather returns.

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 Heads: Weather Forecast

March 30

16°C / 25°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 81% | wind: 7 kmh

March 31

14°C / 19°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 83% | wind: 11 kmh

April 1

15°C / 19°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 73% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

13°C / 19°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 72% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Manghawai Heads Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
20.6°C

Mangawhai Heads Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
20.0°C

Natural Arch

⭐ 3.5/5
19.6°C

Langs Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
21.8°C

Ding Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
20.4°C

Waipu Cove

⭐ 5.0/5
21.8°C

Forestry Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
20.7°C

Te Arai Point

⭐ 3.9/5
21.5°C

Uretiti Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
21.5°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Mangawhai Heads, and the beach is popular with both swimmers and surfers. The open ocean frontage can produce moderate to strong surf, and rip currents may develop, particularly when larger easterly swells are present. Lifeguard patrols are commonly provided during peak summer and holiday periods, offering added safety for beachgoers. Even so, swimmers should always assess the surf conditions before entering the water. On calm summer days with smaller waves, Mangawhai Heads offers a refreshing and energetic setting for a swim along Northland’s east coast.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Mangawhai Heads

⭐ 3/5
21.6°C
1 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Langs beach

⭐ 2/5
19.7°C

Black Swamp

⭐ 2/5
20.6°C

Waipu Cove

⭐ 2/5
19.8°C

Te Arai Point

⭐ 2/5
21.5°C

Waipu River

⭐ 3/5
20.8°C

Forestry

⭐ 3/5
21.6°C
17 km away 📍 Beach and point

Ruakaka

⭐ 2/5
21.4°C

Pakiri beach

⭐ 3/5
21.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Mangawhai Heads today?
Sea water temperature in Mangawhai Heads in the Pacific Ocean today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads typically ranges from 17°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads typically ranges from 13°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Mangawhai Heads typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Mangawhai Heads area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Mangawhai Heads area include: Manghawai Heads Beach, Mangawhai Heads Beach, Natural Arch, Langs Beach, Ding Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Mangawhai Heads?
Some of the closest surf spots near Mangawhai Heads include: Mangawhai Heads, Langs beach, Black Swamp, Waipu Cove, Te Arai Point.