Paekākāriki – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Paekākāriki in Wellington 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.

Current Sea Water Temperature

12.2°C

Today

12.3°C

Yesterday

11.8°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Paekākāriki is about 12°C.

Water Temperature in Paekākāriki: 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

While water temperatures in Paekākāriki declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Paekākāriki will be 12.4°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
Jul 2	13.3°C	13.0°C
Jul 3	12.2°C	12.8°C
Jul 4	11.8°C	12.5°C
Jul 5	12.2°C	12.8°C
Jul 6	11.9°C	12.8°C
Jul 7	12.0°C	12.8°C
Jul 8	12.4°C	13.0°C
Jul 9	12.3°C	12.8°C
Jul 10	12.2°C	12.8°C	12.2°C
Jul 11		12.8°C	12.2°C
Jul 12		12.5°C	12.3°C
Jul 13		12.3°C	12.3°C
Jul 14		12.5°C	12.3°C
Jul 15		12.8°C	12.4°C
Jul 16		12.5°C	12.4°C
Jul 17		12.8°C	12.4°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 Paekākāriki 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

Paekākāriki lies along the Kāpiti Coast in the Wellington Region, facing into Cook Strait. Sea temperatures here are influenced by steady tidal movement and winds that regularly sweep through the strait. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 10–13°C, which feels properly cold and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest and most inviting conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still see around 15–17°C before the water cools again heading into winter.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	14°C	17°C	20°C
February	15°C	18°C	21°C
March	14°C	17°C	20°C
April	14°C	16°C	19°C
May	12°C	15°C	18°C
June	11°C	14°C	16°C
July	11°C	13°C	16°C
August	10°C	12°C	16°C
September	11°C	13°C	16°C
October	10°C	13°C	16°C
November	12°C	14°C	18°C
December	13°C	15°C	20°C

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

Paekākāriki: Weather Forecast

July 11

6°C / 9°C

few clouds: 11-25%

humidity: 74% | wind: 7 kmh

July 12

8°C / 10°C

clear sky

humidity: 74% | wind: 18 kmh

July 13

11°C / 12°C

light rain

humidity: 81% | wind: 32 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Paekākāriki Beach and it’s a popular spot for locals during the warmer months. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, and on calm summer days the water can be clear and refreshing. However, Cook Strait currents and occasional swells can make conditions variable, particularly after strong winds. There are generally no permanent patrols, so swimmers need to check the sea state before entering. During summer, short swims are comfortable for many people, especially when the wind is light and the tide is favourable. Outside the warmer season, cooler temperatures mean most swimmers prefer thermal gear. On a settled day, Paekākāriki offers a scenic and refreshing coastal swim.