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Matapouri – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Matapouri 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.

Matapouri
Matapouri © By iainurquhart, CC BY 2.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.5°C
Today
19.4°C
Yesterday
19.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Matapouri is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Matapouri: 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 Matapouri 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 Matapouri 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
May 719.7°C19.0°C
May 819.6°C19.0°C
May 919.6°C18.8°C
May 1019.7°C18.8°C
May 1119.5°C19.0°C
May 1219.5°C18.5°C
May 1319.6°C18.5°C
May 1419.4°C18.5°C
May 1519.5°C18.5°C19.5°C
May 1618.5°C19.3°C
May 1718.5°C19.2°C
May 1818.3°C19.0°C
May 1918.3°C18.9°C
May 2017.8°C18.7°C
May 2117.8°C18.5°C
May 2217.8°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 Matapouri 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

Matapouri is a well-known coastal settlement in the Northland Region, overlooking a sheltered bay on the Pacific Ocean. The curved sandy beach and surrounding headlands provide some protection from larger swells, helping to create generally moderate sea conditions. Water temperatures here reflect the relatively mild climate of the upper North Island. In summer, from December through February, sea temperatures typically range between 19°C and 22°C, which feels comfortable for swimming on warm days. During autumn, the water often remains 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.

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.

Matapouri: Weather Forecast

May 15

11°C / 16°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 81% | wind: 7 kmh

May 16

12°C / 16°C
light rain
humidity: 86% | wind: 7 kmh

May 17

10°C / 16°C
light rain
humidity: 83% | wind: 4 kmh

May 18

12°C / 14°C
light rain
humidity: 90% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Matapouri Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
19.9°C

Matopouri Bay

⭐ 4.3/5
18.6°C

Mermaids Pool

⭐ 3.5/5
20.0°C

Woolley's Bay

⭐ 3.8/5
19.5°C

Sandy Bay

⭐ 4.6/5
18.9°C

Tutukaka Coast

⭐ 3.1/5
19.3°C

Sandy Bay

⭐ 4.6/5
18.3°C

Whananaki Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
19.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Matapouri and is popular during the warmer months, particularly with families and holidaymakers. The bay’s shape often results in smaller waves compared with more exposed beaches nearby, making it suitable for casual swimmers in settled weather. However, wind-driven chop and occasional rip currents can still develop, especially after stronger swells. Lifeguard patrols are not always guaranteed outside peak holiday periods, so swimmers should check local conditions before entering the water. On fine summer days, Matapouri offers clear water and a welcoming setting for a refreshing swim in Northland.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Sandy Bay

⭐ 2/5
18.6°C

Whananaki Beach

⭐ 3/5
20.3°C

Whananaki bar

⭐ 3/5
20.3°C

Ngunguru Bar

⭐ 3/5
18.4°C

Pareparea Bay

⭐ 3/5
19.8°C

Moureeses

⭐ 5/5
19.9°C
14 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Okupe Beach

⭐ 3/5
20.0°C

Mimiwhangata

⭐ 3/5
20.0°C

Pataua

⭐ 2/5
20.4°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Matapouri today?
Sea water temperature in Matapouri in the Pacific Ocean today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Matapouri during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Matapouri typically ranges from 17°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Matapouri during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Matapouri typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Matapouri during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Matapouri typically ranges from 13°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Matapouri during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Matapouri typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Matapouri area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Matapouri area include: Matapouri Beach, Matopouri Bay, Mermaids Pool, Woolley's Bay, Sandy Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Matapouri?
Some of the closest surf spots near Matapouri include: Sandy Bay, Whananaki Beach, Whananaki bar, Ngunguru Bar, Pareparea Bay.