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Waihau Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Waihau Bay in Bay of Plenty 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.

Waihau Bay
Waihau Bay © Hellen Fox

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.3°C
Today
20.3°C
Yesterday
20.8°C
A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Waihau Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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 Waihau 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 Waihau Bay will be 18.3°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
Mar 2220.8°C20.8°C
Mar 2320.7°C20.8°C
Mar 2420.8°C20.8°C
Mar 2520.7°C20.3°C
Mar 2620.6°C20.5°C
Mar 2720.6°C20.0°C
Mar 2820.4°C20.0°C
Mar 2920.3°C20.5°C
Mar 3020.3°C20.5°C20.3°C
Mar 3120.5°C20.0°C
Apr 120.0°C19.7°C
Apr 219.0°C19.5°C
Apr 318.8°C19.2°C
Apr 417.3°C18.9°C
Apr 517.5°C18.6°C
Apr 617.3°C18.3°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 Waihau 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

Waihau Bay, on the eastern edge of the Bay of Plenty, faces the open Pacific Ocean and is known for its clear water and sunny climate. Sea temperatures here are typical of the eastern North Island coast and are relatively mild through summer. From January to March, water temperatures usually range between 19–22°C, which most people find comfortable for swimming, snorkelling and other water activities. During spring and autumn, the ocean generally sits around 16–19°C. It remains suitable for a swim, 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
January18°C21°C24°C
February19°C21°C24°C
March18°C21°C23°C
April17°C20°C22°C
May16°C18°C21°C
June14°C17°C18°C
July13°C15°C17°C
August13°C15°C16°C
September13°C15°C17°C
October13°C15°C17°C
November15°C17°C19°C
December16°C18°C22°C

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

Waihau Bay: Weather Forecast

March 30

14°C / 21°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 88% | wind: 11 kmh

March 31

12°C / 23°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 68% | wind: 18 kmh

April 1

9°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 67% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

10°C / 17°C
clear sky
humidity: 72% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in Waihau Bay, and the bay’s curved shoreline can offer more sheltered conditions compared with fully exposed surf beaches. However, as this is still open ocean, swell and currents may develop depending on weather patterns. The beach is not consistently patrolled, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully before entering the water. On calm summer days, moderate sea temperatures combined with generally clear water make Waihau Bay an enjoyable and scenic spot for a Pacific swim, provided standard beach safety precautions are followed.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Waihau Bay

⭐ 3/5
21.2°C
2 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Papatea Bay

⭐ 3/5
21.1°C

Whangaparaoa

⭐ 2/5
19.2°C
8 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Hicks Bay

⭐ 4/5
20.8°C

Horseshoe Bay

⭐ 3/5
21.0°C

Tokata

⭐ 4/5
21.0°C
37 km away 📍 Beach and point

Motu River

⭐ 3/5
19.9°C

Te Araroa

⭐ 4/5
19.7°C
42 km away 📍 Beach and point

Maraenui

⭐ 4/5
21.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Waihau Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Waihau Bay in the Pacific Ocean today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Waihau Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Waihau Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Waihau Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Waihau Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Waihau Bay during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Waihau Bay typically ranges from 13°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Waihau Bay during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Waihau Bay typically ranges from 13°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Waihau Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Waihau Bay area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Waihau Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Waihau Bay include: Waihau Bay, Papatea Bay, Whangaparaoa, Hicks Bay, Horseshoe Bay.