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Robin Hood Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Robin Hood Bay in Marlborough 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.

Robin Hood Bay
Robin Hood Bay © Abdulla Hamouda

Current Sea Water Temperature

13.9°C
Today
13.9°C
Yesterday
14.1°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Robin Hood Bay is about 14°C.

Water Temperature in Robin Hood Bay: 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 April 15 to May 15

Water temperatures in Robin Hood Bay 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 Robin Hood Bay will be 14.3°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 714.1°C14.0°C
May 814.0°C14.3°C
May 914.1°C14.0°C
May 1014.3°C14.0°C
May 1114.4°C14.5°C
May 1214.3°C14.0°C
May 1314.4°C14.3°C
May 1413.9°C13.0°C
May 1513.9°C13.0°C13.9°C
May 1613.8°C14.0°C
May 1714.0°C14.0°C
May 1813.3°C14.1°C
May 1913.5°C14.1°C
May 2013.5°C14.2°C
May 2114.3°C14.2°C
May 2214.3°C14.3°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 Robin Hood Bay 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

Robin Hood Bay is a small coastal settlement south of Blenheim in the Marlborough Region, facing Cook Strait and the meeting point of the Pacific and Tasman waters. Sea temperatures here reflect the cool, tidal nature of the strait. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 9–12°C, which feels distinctly cold and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 11–14°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 15–18°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still see 14–16°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January14°C16°C19°C
February14°C17°C19°C
March14°C16°C19°C
April12°C15°C17°C
May11°C14°C17°C
June10°C13°C16°C
July10°C12°C15°C
August9°C12°C14°C
September10°C12°C14°C
October10°C13°C15°C
November11°C14°C16°C
December13°C15°C18°C

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

Robin Hood Bay: Weather Forecast

May 16

6°C / 11°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 78% | wind: 7 kmh

May 17

5°C / 13°C
clear sky
humidity: 85% | wind: 4 kmh

May 18

5°C / 14°C
clear sky
humidity: 83% | wind: 0 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Robin Hood Bay, and it can be an enjoyable spot during the warmer months when conditions are calm. The beach is mostly stony, and while the bay shape can offer some shelter, it remains influenced by tidal flows and swells moving through Cook Strait. Currents can vary depending on wind and tide, and there are generally no regular lifeguard patrols. Swimmers should assess the sea state carefully before entering. On fine summer days, short swims can be refreshing for confident swimmers used to cooler water. Outside the warmer season, thermal gear is strongly recommended. Robin Hood Bay offers scenic views and relatively quiet surroundings, but the sea remains brisk year-round.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Robin Hood Bay

⭐ 1/5
13.0°C

Whites Bay

⭐ 3/5
14.6°C

Te Ikaamaru Bay

⭐ 2/5
15.6°C

Makara

⭐ 2/5
13.9°C

Whangamoa

⭐ 3/5
16.5°C

Magnets

⭐ 3/5
16.6°C

Ward Beach

⭐ 3/5
13.8°C

Delaware Bay (East end)

⭐ 2/5
17.7°C

Delaware Bay Point

⭐ 4/5
17.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Robin Hood Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Robin Hood Bay in the Cook Strait today is 14°C.
What is the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay typically ranges from 11°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Robin Hood Bay typically ranges from 9°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Robin Hood Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Robin Hood Bay area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Robin Hood Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Robin Hood Bay include: Robin Hood Bay, Whites Bay, Te Ikaamaru Bay.