Motueka – current water temperature and swimming conditions

Water Temperature in Motueka: 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

Water temperatures in Motueka 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 Motueka will be 15.3°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

Motueka sits at the northern end of Tasman Bay in the Tasman Region, with easy access to sandy beaches and sheltered coastal waters influenced by Cook Strait. Sea temperatures here are generally milder than much of the South Island due to the bay’s semi-enclosed setting. In winter, from June to August, the water typically ranges between 10–13°C, which feels cool and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 12–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the warmest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 17–21°C during settled, sunny spells. Early autumn can still see 16–18°C before cooling again as winter approaches.