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Tolaga Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Tolaga Bay in Gisborne 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.

Tolaga Bay
Tolaga Bay © By Ulrich Lange, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.1°C
Today
19.4°C
Yesterday
19.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Tolaga Bay is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Tolaga Bay: 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

Water temperatures in Tolaga 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 Tolaga Bay will be 17.1°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°C19.8°C
Mar 2319.5°C19.8°C
Mar 2419.5°C19.0°C
Mar 2519.4°C19.5°C
Mar 2619.5°C19.5°C
Mar 2719.6°C19.5°C
Mar 2819.5°C19.3°C
Mar 2919.4°C19.3°C
Mar 3019.1°C19.3°C19.1°C
Mar 3119.5°C18.8°C
Apr 119.5°C18.5°C
Apr 218.0°C18.3°C
Apr 317.8°C18.0°C
Apr 416.3°C17.7°C
Apr 516.3°C17.4°C
Apr 616.5°C17.1°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 Tolaga 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

Tolaga Bay, in the Gisborne Region on the East Coast of Aotearoa, faces the open Pacific Ocean and is known for its wide sandy shoreline and long wharf. Sea temperatures here follow the typical eastern North Island pattern. In summer, particularly from January through March, water temperatures usually range between 19–22°C, which most people find comfortable for swimming on warm, settled days. During spring and autumn, the ocean generally sits around 16–19°C. It’s still suitable for a dip, although the water can feel cool at first. In winter, temperatures often drop to about 13–15°C, making the sea noticeably brisk and more appealing to confident swimmers or those wearing wetsuits.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January17°C19°C22°C
February17°C20°C23°C
March18°C20°C21°C
April17°C19°C21°C
May15°C17°C19°C
June14°C16°C17°C
July12°C15°C16°C
August12°C14°C16°C
September12°C14°C17°C
October12°C15°C18°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December15°C18°C21°C

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

Tolaga Bay: Weather Forecast

March 30

15°C / 23°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 83% | wind: 7 kmh

March 31

13°C / 19°C
light rain
humidity: 78% | wind: 22 kmh

April 1

9°C / 15°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 71% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

11°C / 16°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Tolaga Bay and is popular in calm conditions, especially over the summer months. As an exposed coastline, the beach can experience moderate waves and occasional rips, depending on swell and wind direction. Conditions may change from day to day, so it’s important to assess the sea state before entering the water. On settled summer days, moderate sea temperatures and the broad sandy beach make Tolaga Bay a pleasant spot for a relaxed Pacific swim, provided normal beach safety precautions are followed.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Tolaga Bay

⭐ 4/5
19.4°C

Kaiaua Bay

⭐ 3/5
18.0°C

Loisell's

⭐ 4/5
19.2°C
9 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Three Points

⭐ 4/5
18.8°C
10 km away 📍 Beach and point

Whangara

⭐ 4/5
19.2°C
25 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Tokomaru Bay

⭐ 4/5
19.2°C

Pouawa Beach

⭐ 4/5
19.0°C

Makorori North

⭐ 4/5
19.5°C
35 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Makorori Centre

⭐ 5/5
19.1°C
36 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Tolaga Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Tolaga Bay in the Pacific Ocean today is 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Tolaga Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Tolaga Bay typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Tolaga Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Tolaga Bay typically ranges from 15°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Tolaga Bay during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Tolaga Bay typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Tolaga Bay during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Tolaga Bay typically ranges from 12°C to 17°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Tolaga Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Tolaga Bay area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Tolaga Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Tolaga Bay include: Tolaga Bay, Kaiaua Bay, Loisell's, Three Points, Whangara.