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North Cape – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at North Cape 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.

North Cape
North Cape © By LawrieM, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

21.2°C
Today
21.2°C
Yesterday
21.2°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in North Cape is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in North Cape: 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

Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in North Cape have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in North Cape will be 19.0°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 2221.2°C20.0°C
Mar 2321.2°C20.0°C
Mar 2421.2°C20.3°C
Mar 2521.3°C20.3°C
Mar 2621.2°C20.0°C
Mar 2721.1°C20.0°C
Mar 2821.1°C20.3°C
Mar 2921.2°C20.0°C
Mar 3021.2°C20.0°C21.2°C
Mar 3120.0°C20.9°C
Apr 120.0°C20.6°C
Apr 219.0°C20.3°C
Apr 319.0°C20.0°C
Apr 417.0°C19.7°C
Apr 518.0°C19.3°C
Apr 617.0°C19.0°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 North Cape 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

North Cape, at the far northern edge of the Northland Region, is an exposed and rugged stretch of coastline where powerful ocean currents meet. Water temperatures here are influenced by subtropical flows that reach the upper North Island, giving the area relatively mild sea conditions compared with much of the country. In summer, from December to February, sea temperatures generally range between 19°C and 22°C, occasionally nudging slightly higher during prolonged settled weather. Autumn often remains comfortable at around 18–20°C before gradually cooling. Winter temperatures typically drop to between 14°C and 16°C, while spring sees a steady warming from roughly 15°C towards 18°C by late November.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C21°C23°C
February19°C22°C24°C
March18°C21°C23°C
April17°C20°C23°C
May16°C19°C21°C
June15°C17°C19°C
July14°C16°C18°C
August13°C16°C18°C
September14°C16°C18°C
October14°C17°C19°C
November15°C18°C20°C
December16°C19°C22°C

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

North Cape: Weather Forecast

March 30

17°C / 21°C
light rain
humidity: 86% | wind: 18 kmh

March 31

16°C / 19°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 77% | wind: 18 kmh

April 1

13°C / 21°C
clear sky
humidity: 78% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

12°C / 21°C
clear sky
humidity: 74% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Spirits Bay

⭐ 4.2/5
20.8°C

Tom Bowling Bay

⭐ 3.0/5
21.2°C

Te Pua Reserve

⭐ 3.1/5
20.7°C

Pandora Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
21.0°C

Tapotupotu Bay

⭐ 4.2/5
20.6°C

Sandy Bay

⭐ 3.1/5
20.0°C

Twilight Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
21.8°C

Cape Reinga

⭐ 3.1/5
21.6°C

Te Werahi Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
20.8°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at North Cape is technically possible but is not generally recommended due to the strong currents, unpredictable swells and exposed nature of the coastline. The meeting of ocean flows can create turbulent conditions, even on days that appear calm from shore. There are no lifeguard services in this remote area, and access points can be limited. During settled summer periods with minimal swell, experienced swimmers may enter sheltered sections with caution, but careful assessment of conditions is essential. For most visitors, North Cape is better known for its dramatic scenery rather than as a regular swimming spot.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Tom Bowling Bay

⭐ 2/5
21.0°C

Parengarenga Harbour Bar

⭐ 2/5
21.3°C

Spirits Bay

⭐ 2/5
21.7°C

Tapotupoto Bay

⭐ 2/5
22.3°C

Great Exhibition Bay

⭐ 2/5
20.0°C

Te Paki

⭐ 2/5
22.4°C

Twilight Beach

⭐ 2/5
20.8°C

Scott Point

⭐ 2/5
22.4°C
31 km away 📍 Beach and point

Herangi Beach

⭐ 2/5
21.9°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in North Cape today?
Sea water temperature in North Cape in the Tasman Sea today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in North Cape during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in North Cape typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in North Cape during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in North Cape typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in North Cape during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in North Cape typically ranges from 14°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in North Cape during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in North Cape typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
Which beaches are popular in the North Cape area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the North Cape area include: Tom Bowling Bay, Spirits Bay, Te Pua Reserve, Pandora Beach, Tapotupotu Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to North Cape?
Some of the closest surf spots near North Cape include: Tom Bowling Bay, Parengarenga Harbour Bar, Spirits Bay, Tapotupoto Bay, Great Exhibition Bay.