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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.

Whāngaimoana
Whāngaimoana © Sreeram Nattath

Current Sea Water Temperature

15.6°C
Today
15.7°C
Yesterday
15.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Whāngaimoana is about 16°C.

Water Temperature in Whāngaimoana: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.

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

Over the past month, water temperatures in Whāngaimoana have stayed mostly steady, also with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Whāngaimoana will be 14.2°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
Mar 2216.1°C16.0°C
Mar 2315.6°C15.5°C
Mar 2415.6°C15.5°C
Mar 2515.3°C15.8°C
Mar 2615.5°C16.3°C
Mar 2715.7°C16.3°C
Mar 2815.8°C16.0°C
Mar 2915.7°C16.3°C
Mar 3015.6°C16.3°C15.6°C
Mar 3116.8°C15.4°C
Apr 116.0°C15.2°C
Apr 215.8°C15.0°C
Apr 316.5°C14.8°C
Apr 414.0°C14.6°C
Apr 513.8°C14.4°C
Apr 613.8°C14.2°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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

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
January14°C17°C20°C
February15°C18°C21°C
March14°C17°C20°C
April14°C16°C19°C
May12°C15°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July11°C13°C16°C
August10°C12°C16°C
September11°C13°C16°C
October10°C13°C16°C
November12°C14°C18°C
December13°C15°C20°C

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

Whāngaimoana: Weather Forecast

March 30

12°C / 17°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 88% | wind: 14 kmh

March 31

9°C / 12°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 67% | wind: 18 kmh

April 1

10°C / 14°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

April 2

13°C / 16°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 18 kmh

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.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Baches

⭐ 2/5
15.5°C

Whatarangi Point and Bombora

⭐ 2/5
14.4°C

Whatarangi Station

⭐ 2/5
16.0°C

Humenga Point

⭐ 4/5
15.3°C

Pararaki Stream

⭐ 2/5
15.7°C

Humenga Lodge

⭐ 3/5
16.2°C

Otakaha Stream

⭐ 2/5
15.5°C

Dee Dees

⭐ 3/5
15.2°C

Ning Nong Point and Reef

⭐ 4/5
16.2°C
18 km away 📍 Reef and point

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Whāngaimoana today?
Sea water temperature in Whāngaimoana in the Cook Strait today is 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Whāngaimoana during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Whāngaimoana typically ranges from 13°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Whāngaimoana during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Whāngaimoana typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Whāngaimoana during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Whāngaimoana typically ranges from 10°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Whāngaimoana during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Whāngaimoana typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Whāngaimoana area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Whāngaimoana area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Whāngaimoana?
Some of the closest surf spots near Whāngaimoana include: Baches, Whatarangi Point and Bombora, Whatarangi Station, Humenga Point, Pararaki Stream.