Rarawa Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Rarawa Beach in Northland 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
The average sea water temperature today in Rarawa Beach is about 19°C.
Water Temperature in Rarawa Beach: 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
Water temperatures in Rarawa Beach 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 Rarawa Beach will be 18.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 6 | 19.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| May 7 | 19.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| May 8 | 19.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| May 9 | 19.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| May 10 | 19.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| May 11 | 19.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| May 12 | 19.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 13 | 19.1°C | 18.8°C | |
| May 14 | 19.3°C | 18.8°C | 19.3°C |
| May 15 | 18.0°C | 19.2°C | |
| May 16 | 18.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| May 17 | 18.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| May 18 | 18.0°C | 18.9°C | |
| May 19 | 18.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| May 20 | 18.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| May 21 | 18.0°C | 18.6°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 Rarawa Beach 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Rarawa Beach, located in the Far North of the Northland Region and facing the Pacific Ocean, is well known for its fine white silica sand and clear coastal waters. Sea temperatures here are among the warmer in New Zealand due to the influence of subtropical currents reaching the upper North Island. In summer, from December through February, water temperatures typically range between 19°C and 22°C, which feels comfortable for most swimmers on a warm day. During autumn, the sea often remains pleasant at around 18–20°C before cooling gradually. Winter temperatures usually drop to between 14°C and 16°C, while spring brings a steady warming from roughly 15°C up towards 18°C by late November.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| February | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| March | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| April | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| May | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| July | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| August | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| September | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| October | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| November | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Rarawa Beach: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Rarawa Beach
Hendersons Beach
Colteri Beach
Ninety Mile Beach
Maunganui Bluff Reserve
The Bluff Beach
Te Pua Reserve
Rangiputa Beach
Puheke Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Rarawa Beach and can be enjoyable during settled summer conditions, particularly when winds are light and the surf is moderate. However, the beach is open to ocean swells and can experience strong rips and shifting sandbars. There are not always lifeguards on patrol, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully before entering the water. On calm days with low swell, the clear Pacific water and gently sloping shoreline provide a refreshing and scenic spot for a swim, especially during the warmer months.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Ngataki Beach and Paxton Point
Rarawa Beach
Henderson Bay
Great Exhibition Bay
Houhora Harbour Bar
The Bluff-South Side
The Bluff-North Side
Parengarenga Harbour Bar
Ranganunu Harbour
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: 73PC+G44, Ngataki 0484, New Zealand
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
