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Whatipu Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Whatipu Beach in Auckland 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.

Whatipu Beach
Whatipu Beach © Karl Anderson

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.0°C
Today
18.1°C
Yesterday
18.3°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Whatipu Beach is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Whatipu Beach: 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 April 14 to May 14

Water temperatures in Whatipu Beach 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 Whatipu Beach will be 18.0°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 618.2°C17.8°C
May 718.2°C17.3°C
May 818.3°C17.3°C
May 918.3°C17.3°C
May 1018.3°C17.8°C
May 1118.3°C17.8°C
May 1218.3°C17.3°C
May 1318.1°C17.8°C
May 1418.0°C17.8°C18.0°C
May 1517.0°C18.0°C
May 1618.0°C18.0°C
May 1718.0°C18.0°C
May 1817.0°C18.0°C
May 1917.0°C18.0°C
May 2018.0°C18.0°C
May 2117.0°C18.0°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 Whatipu Beach 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

Whatipu Beach lies at the southern end of Auckland’s west coast, where the Manukau Harbour meets the Tasman Sea. This is a remote and windswept stretch of black sand, fully exposed to ocean swells. Sea temperatures follow the usual upper North Island pattern. In summer, from January to March, the water generally ranges between 18 and 21°C. While that is warm enough for a swim by local standards, the open coast and steady breeze can make it feel cooler. During autumn, temperatures ease back to around 16 to 19°C. Winter sees the sea drop to roughly 13 to 15°C, and in spring it gradually rises from about 14 to 17°C. Strong winds and tidal flows can cause short-term variations in surface temperature.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C21°C24°C
February19°C22°C24°C
March18°C21°C24°C
April18°C20°C22°C
May15°C18°C20°C
June14°C16°C18°C
July12°C15°C17°C
August12°C14°C16°C
September12°C15°C17°C
October13°C16°C18°C
November15°C18°C20°C
December16°C20°C23°C

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

Whatipu Beach: Weather Forecast

May 15

9°C / 17°C
clear sky
humidity: 77% | wind: 4 kmh

May 16

9°C / 17°C
clear sky
humidity: 80% | wind: 4 kmh

May 17

8°C / 16°C
clear sky
humidity: 80% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Whatipu Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
18.9°C

Karekare Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
19.0°C

The Blue Pool

⭐ 3.5/5
17.1°C

Piha Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
19.1°C

Fosters Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
17.4°C

Wattle Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
17.5°C

North Piha Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
16.9°C

Coulthard Reserve

⭐ 3.6/5
17.7°C

United North Piha

⭐ 5.0/5
19.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is technically allowed at Whatipu, but it is not considered a safe swimming beach for most people. Powerful rips, large surf and strong tidal currents near the harbour entrance create hazardous conditions, and there are no regular lifeguard patrols. Even on calmer summer days, the sea can be unpredictable. As a result, swimming is generally only suitable for very experienced and confident ocean swimmers who carefully assess conditions before entering the water.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Whatipu

⭐ 3/5
16.9°C

Karekare

⭐ 2/5
17.6°C

Piha-The Ditch

⭐ 3/5
17.2°C

Piha-The Bar

⭐ 3/5
17.3°C

Piha North

⭐ 3/5
18.1°C

Bethell's Beach / Te Henga

⭐ 3/5
17.1°C

O'Neills Bay

⭐ 3/5
17.7°C

Mussel Rock

⭐ 3/5
18.3°C

Shag Rock

⭐ 3/5
18.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Whatipu Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Whatipu Beach in the Tasman Sea today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Whatipu Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Whatipu Beach typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Whatipu Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Whatipu Beach typically ranges from 15°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Whatipu Beach during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Whatipu Beach typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Whatipu Beach during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Whatipu Beach typically ranges from 12°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Whatipu Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Whatipu Beach area include: Whatipu Beach, Karekare Beach, Piha Beach, The Blue Pool, Fosters Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Whatipu Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Whatipu Beach include: Whatipu, Karekare, Piha-The Bar, Piha-The Ditch, Piha North.