Temperature:

Your Favorite Locations:

Your favorites list is empty.

Piha – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Piha in Auckland 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.

Piha
Piha © By Follash, Public Domain

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.7°C
Today
19.7°C
Yesterday
19.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Piha is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Piha: 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

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

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Piha will be 17.8°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 2219.6°C20.0°C
Mar 2319.6°C20.0°C
Mar 2419.6°C20.0°C
Mar 2519.7°C20.0°C
Mar 2619.8°C19.3°C
Mar 2719.9°C20.0°C
Mar 2819.5°C20.0°C
Mar 2919.7°C19.8°C
Mar 3019.7°C19.8°C19.7°C
Mar 3120.0°C19.4°C
Apr 119.0°C19.2°C
Apr 218.0°C18.9°C
Apr 318.0°C18.6°C
Apr 417.0°C18.4°C
Apr 517.0°C18.1°C
Apr 617.0°C17.8°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 Piha 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

Piha is one of Auckland’s most iconic west coast beaches, set on the edge of the Tasman Sea and framed by black sand and Lion Rock. Sea temperatures here follow the upper North Island pattern but can feel cooler due to the exposed coastline and regular surf. In summer, particularly from January to March, water temperatures usually range between 18 and 21°C. Many locals are happy to swim at these levels, although it still feels fresh compared with more sheltered east coast beaches. During autumn, the sea tends to sit around 16 to 19°C. Winter brings cooler conditions, typically between 13 and 15°C, while spring sees a gradual rise from about 14 up to 17°C. Wind and swell can temporarily shift surface temperatures by a degree or two.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C21°C24°C
February19°C22°C24°C
March18°C21°C24°C
April18°C20°C22°C
May15°C18°C20°C
June14°C16°C18°C
July12°C15°C17°C
August12°C14°C16°C
September12°C15°C17°C
October13°C16°C18°C
November15°C18°C20°C
December16°C20°C23°C

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

Piha: Weather Forecast

March 30

16°C / 21°C
light rain
humidity: 84% | wind: 18 kmh

March 31

13°C / 19°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 82% | wind: 14 kmh

April 1

13°C / 19°C
light rain
humidity: 80% | wind: 7 kmh

April 2

12°C / 21°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 77% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Piha Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
19.2°C

North Piha Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
19.5°C

The Blue Pool

⭐ 3.5/5
20.1°C

United North Piha

⭐ 5.0/5
19.3°C

Whites Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
19.7°C

Karekare Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
19.4°C

Anawhata Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
20.6°C

Bethells Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
19.1°C

O'Neill Beach

⭐ 3.3/5
18.9°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Piha, and the beach is patrolled by surf lifeguards during the main summer season. However, this is a high-energy surf beach with strong rips and powerful waves, so swimming between the flags is strongly advised. Outside of patrolled times, extra care is needed, as conditions can change quickly. Confident swimmers can enjoy the water on suitable days, but awareness of the sea state is essential.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Piha-The Bar

⭐ 3/5
20.5°C

Piha-The Ditch

⭐ 3/5
19.3°C

Piha North

⭐ 3/5
19.8°C

Karekare

⭐ 2/5
19.3°C

Bethell's Beach / Te Henga

⭐ 3/5
19.0°C

O'Neills Bay

⭐ 3/5
20.6°C

Mussel Rock

⭐ 3/5
18.9°C

Maori Bay

⭐ 3/5
19.6°C

Shag Rock

⭐ 3/5
19.8°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Piha today?
Sea water temperature in Piha in the Tasman Sea today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Piha during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Piha typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Piha during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Piha typically ranges from 15°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Piha during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Piha typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Piha during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Piha typically ranges from 12°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Piha area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Piha area include: Piha Beach, The Blue Pool, North Piha Beach, United North Piha, Whites Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Piha?
Some of the closest surf spots near Piha include: Piha-The Bar, Piha North, Piha-The Ditch, Karekare, Bethell's Beach / Te Henga.