Whāngaimoana – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Whāngaimoana 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Whāngaimoana is about 12°C.
Water Temperature in Whāngaimoana: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ This is very cold water, causing an immediate cold shock response for most people. Swimming is not recommended without a wetsuit, and even with protection, time in the water should be limited. These temperatures are typically suited only to trained or well-prepared swimmers.
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 Whāngaimoana 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 Whāngaimoana will be 12.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 11.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 11.8°C | 11.8°C | |
| Aug 23 | 11.3°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 24 | 11.2°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 25 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 26 | 11.6°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 27 | 11.6°C | 12.3°C | 11.6°C |
| Aug 28 | 12.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 29 | 12.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| Aug 30 | 12.3°C | 11.8°C | |
| Aug 31 | 12.5°C | 11.9°C | |
| Sep 1 | 12.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| Sep 2 | 12.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| Sep 3 | 12.5°C | 12.2°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 Whāngaimoana 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
Whāngaimoana is a small and remote coastal settlement on the Wairarapa coast of the Wellington Region, facing the open Pacific Ocean. Sea temperatures here follow the typical pattern for the lower North Island’s east coast. In winter, from June through August, the water generally ranges between 11–14°C, which feels distinctly cold and is usually best suited to surfers or swimmers wearing wetsuits. As spring progresses, temperatures gradually rise to around 14–16°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the most comfortable conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 17–20°C during settled weather. Early autumn can still hold at 16–18°C before cooling again as winter approaches.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| February | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| March | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| April | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| May | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 13°C | 15°C | 20°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Whāngaimoana: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Whāngaimoana, but conditions can be variable and sometimes challenging. The coastline is exposed to open ocean swells, and waves and rip currents may develop depending on wind direction and offshore weather systems. There are generally no lifeguard patrols, so swimmers need to assess conditions carefully before entering the water. On calm summer days, the water can be clear and refreshing, making it suitable for confident swimmers who are comfortable in open surf environments. Outside the warmer months, cooler temperatures and more energetic seas mean a wetsuit is recommended. When the weather settles, Whāngaimoana offers a quiet and scenic east coast setting for those prepared for typical lower North Island ocean conditions.
