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Porirua – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Porirua 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.

Porirua
Porirua © By Phillip Capper, CC BY 2.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.5°C
Today
16.6°C
Yesterday
16.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Porirua is about 17°C.

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

⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.

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 Porirua have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Porirua will be 14.5°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 2217.1°C16.3°C
Mar 2317.0°C15.8°C
Mar 2416.5°C16.0°C
Mar 2516.5°C16.0°C
Mar 2616.8°C16.5°C
Mar 2716.8°C16.5°C
Mar 2816.8°C16.3°C
Mar 2916.6°C16.5°C
Mar 3016.5°C16.5°C16.5°C
Mar 3116.8°C16.2°C
Apr 116.0°C15.9°C
Apr 215.8°C15.6°C
Apr 316.5°C15.3°C
Apr 414.0°C15.1°C
Apr 513.8°C14.8°C
Apr 613.8°C14.5°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 Porirua 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

Porirua sits just north of central Wellington, bordered by the sheltered waters of Porirua Harbour and the more exposed coastline facing Cook Strait. Water temperatures here reflect a mix of tidal influence and relative protection within the harbour. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 10–13°C, which feels distinctly cold and is usually only comfortable for swimmers in wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually rise to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the most pleasant conditions, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during settled weather. Early autumn can still hold at 15–17°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January14°C17°C20°C
February15°C18°C21°C
March14°C17°C20°C
April14°C16°C19°C
May12°C15°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July11°C13°C16°C
August10°C12°C16°C
September11°C13°C16°C
October10°C13°C16°C
November12°C14°C18°C
December13°C15°C20°C

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

Porirua: Weather Forecast

March 30

12°C / 17°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 88% | wind: 14 kmh

March 31

9°C / 12°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 67% | wind: 18 kmh

April 1

10°C / 14°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

13°C / 16°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at several locations around Porirua, including Plimmerton Beach and within parts of the harbour when water quality conditions are suitable. The harbour areas can offer calmer water compared to the open Cook Strait coast, making them more appealing for families and casual swimmers in summer. Plimmerton, while more exposed, is a popular spot during warmer months and may have lifeguard patrols at times. Outside summer, cooler water temperatures mean most people prefer short dips or wear thermal gear. As with much of the Wellington coastline, conditions can change quickly depending on wind and tide. On a settled summer day, Porirua provides a refreshing and accessible coastal swimming experience close to the city.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Titahi Bay

⭐ 2/5
16.5°C

The Pa Point

⭐ 2/5
17.5°C

The Pa

⭐ 2/5
16.5°C

Mana Island

⭐ 3/5
16.7°C

Pukerua Bay

⭐ 1/5
17.9°C
10 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Paekakariki

⭐ 1/5
18.1°C

Makara

⭐ 2/5
16.2°C

Te Ikaamaru Bay

⭐ 2/5
17.0°C

Eastbourne

⭐ 2/5
15.7°C
24 km away 📍 Reef and point

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Porirua today?
Sea water temperature in Porirua in the Cook Strait today is 17°C.
What is the water temperature in Porirua during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Porirua typically ranges from 13°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Porirua during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Porirua typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Porirua during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Porirua typically ranges from 10°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Porirua during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Porirua typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Porirua area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Porirua area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Porirua?
Some of the closest surf spots near Porirua include: Titahi Bay, The Pa, The Pa Point, Mana Island, Pukerua Bay.