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Ōkārito – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Ōkārito in West Coast 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.

Ōkārito
Ōkārito © By Hagai Agmon-Snir, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

13.0°C
Today
13.2°C
Yesterday
12.8°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Ōkārito is about 13°C.

Water Temperature in Ōkārito: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

❌ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.

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 June 10 to July 10

Water temperatures in Ōkāritofell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Ōkārito will be 11.6°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
Jul 213.3°C11.3°C
Jul 313.1°C11.3°C
Jul 412.8°C10.8°C
Jul 513.0°C10.8°C
Jul 613.0°C10.8°C
Jul 712.9°C10.8°C
Jul 813.1°C10.8°C
Jul 913.2°C10.8°C
Jul 1013.0°C10.8°C13.0°C
Jul 1110.0°C12.8°C
Jul 1210.0°C12.6°C
Jul 1310.0°C12.4°C
Jul 1410.0°C12.2°C
Jul 1510.0°C12.0°C
Jul 1611.0°C11.8°C
Jul 1710.0°C11.6°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 Ōkārito 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

Ōkārito is a small and remote settlement on the West Coast of the South Island, facing the Tasman Sea and bordered by a large coastal lagoon. Sea temperatures here reflect the cool, exposed nature of this coastline. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 11–14°C, which feels distinctly cold and is usually only comfortable for surfers or swimmers wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still see 15–17°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January13°C16°C19°C
February13°C17°C20°C
March13°C16°C19°C
April12°C15°C17°C
May10°C13°C16°C
June8°C11°C14°C
July7°C10°C12°C
August8°C10°C11°C
September8°C10°C12°C
October9°C12°C15°C
November10°C13°C16°C
December12°C15°C18°C

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

Ōkārito: Weather Forecast

July 11

7°C / 10°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 70% | wind: 7 kmh

July 12

9°C / 12°C
light rain
humidity: 80% | wind: 18 kmh

July 13

9°C / 11°C
light rain
humidity: 88% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Gillespies Beach

⭐ 4.2/5
14.1°C

Bruce Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
12.8°C

Sunset Point

⭐ 3.5/5
12.9°C

Hokitika Beach

⭐ 4.5/5
13.2°C

Monro Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
13.5°C

Lake Tekapo

⭐ 4.2/5
9.3°C

Lake Pukaki

⭐ 3.2/5
12.5°C

Ship Creek

⭐ 3.4/5
13.0°C

Serpentine Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
14.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed along the Ōkārito coastline, but conditions can be changeable. The Tasman Sea here is often active, with regular swells, shifting sandbars and potential rip currents depending on wind and tide. The nearby lagoon can sometimes provide calmer water, although temperature and clarity vary with rainfall and tidal flow. There are generally no lifeguard patrols, so swimmers need to assess the sea and weather carefully before entering. On calm summer days, short swims can be refreshing for confident swimmers accustomed to cooler water. Outside the warmer months, thermal gear is advisable. Ōkārito offers a wild and scenic coastal setting, but the ocean demands caution and respect year-round.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Okarito Beach

⭐ 3/5
12.1°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Ōkārito today?
Sea water temperature in Ōkārito in the Tasman Sea today is 13°C.
What is the water temperature in Ōkārito during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Ōkārito typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Ōkārito during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Ōkārito typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Ōkārito during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Ōkārito typically ranges from 8°C to 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Ōkārito during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Ōkārito typically ranges from 7°C to 14°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Ōkārito area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Ōkārito area include: Gillespies Beach, Bruce Beach, Sunset Point, Hokitika Beach, Monro Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Ōkārito?
Some of the closest surf spots near Ōkārito include: Okarito Beach.