Mangawhai Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

Water Temperature in Mangawhai Heads: 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

Water temperatures in Mangawhai Heads 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 Heads will be 16.2°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

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.