Nūhaka – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Nūhaka in Hawke's Bay. 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.

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.4°C

Today

18.5°C

Yesterday

18.7°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Nūhaka is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Nūhaka: 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 February 27 to March 29

Water temperatures in Nūhaka 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 Nūhaka will be 16.9°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 22	18.7°C	19.5°C
Mar 23	18.6°C	19.5°C
Mar 24	18.7°C	19.0°C
Mar 25	18.6°C	19.3°C
Mar 26	18.7°C	19.3°C
Mar 27	18.8°C	19.3°C
Mar 28	18.6°C	19.3°C
Mar 29	18.5°C	19.0°C
Mar 30	18.4°C	19.0°C	18.4°C
Mar 31		19.5°C	18.2°C
Apr 1		19.5°C	18.0°C
Apr 2		18.0°C	17.8°C
Apr 3		17.8°C	17.6°C
Apr 4		16.3°C	17.4°C
Apr 5		16.3°C	17.1°C
Apr 6		16.5°C	16.9°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 Nūhaka 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

Nūhaka, just south of Māhia in northern Hawke’s Bay, sits close to the Pacific coast and experiences typical east coast sea temperatures. In winter, from June through August, ocean water generally ranges between 13–15°C, which feels distinctly cold for most swimmers and usually calls for a wetsuit. As spring progresses, temperatures lift gradually to around 15–17°C. By summer, from December to March, the sea is at its most inviting, commonly reaching 19–22°C during settled periods. Early autumn often holds onto warmth, with water still around 18–20°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	17°C	19°C	22°C
February	17°C	20°C	23°C
March	18°C	20°C	21°C
April	17°C	19°C	21°C
May	15°C	17°C	19°C
June	14°C	16°C	17°C
July	12°C	15°C	16°C
August	12°C	14°C	16°C
September	12°C	14°C	17°C
October	12°C	15°C	18°C
November	14°C	16°C	19°C
December	15°C	18°C	21°C

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

Nūhaka: Weather Forecast

March 30

15°C / 23°C

scattered clouds: 25-50%

humidity: 83% | wind: 7 kmh

March 31

13°C / 19°C

light rain

humidity: 78% | wind: 22 kmh

April 1

9°C / 15°C

few clouds: 11-25%

humidity: 71% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

11°C / 16°C

clear sky

humidity: 75% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed along the nearby beaches and coastal stretches, and during summer it can be very enjoyable, particularly on calm, sunny days with light winds. However, this part of the coast is open to Pacific swells, and surf and rip currents can develop, so care is needed. There are no permanently patrolled beaches right by Nūhaka, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully and avoid rough seas. In cooler months, the lower water temperatures and more active surf make swimming better suited to experienced locals, surfers or those wearing thermal gear. When conditions are right, though, the clear water and relatively uncrowded shoreline offer a classic east coast swimming experience.