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White Rock – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at White Rock 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.

White Rock
White Rock © Jakub Harmata

Current Sea Water Temperature

12.4°C
Today
12.5°C
Yesterday
12.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in White Rock is about 12°C.

Water Temperature in White Rock: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

❌ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.

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 June 10 to July 10

Water temperatures in White Rock 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 White Rock will be 12.5°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
Jul 213.2°C13.3°C
Jul 313.1°C13.0°C
Jul 412.9°C12.8°C
Jul 512.8°C13.0°C
Jul 612.7°C13.0°C
Jul 712.7°C13.0°C
Jul 812.6°C13.3°C
Jul 912.5°C12.8°C
Jul 1012.4°C12.8°C12.4°C
Jul 1112.8°C12.4°C
Jul 1212.5°C12.4°C
Jul 1312.3°C12.4°C
Jul 1412.5°C12.4°C
Jul 1512.8°C12.5°C
Jul 1612.5°C12.5°C
Jul 1712.8°C12.5°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 White Rock 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

White Rock, on the rugged southern Wairarapa coast of the Wellington Region, faces directly into the Pacific Ocean and is known for its remote, windswept setting. Sea temperatures here are among the cooler on the North Island’s east coast. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 11–13°C, which feels very cold and is typically only comfortable for surfers or swimmers wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures lift gradually to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during settled weather. Early autumn may still see 15–17°C before the ocean cools again.

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.

White Rock: Weather Forecast

July 11

6°C / 9°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 74% | wind: 7 kmh

July 12

8°C / 10°C
clear sky
humidity: 74% | wind: 18 kmh

July 13

11°C / 12°C
light rain
humidity: 81% | wind: 32 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at White Rock, but conditions are often challenging. This is a fully exposed stretch of coastline, and strong swells, currents and shifting winds are common. There are no regular lifeguard patrols, and access can be limited depending on weather and track conditions. On rare calm summer days, the water can be clear and refreshing for confident and experienced swimmers who are comfortable in open ocean environments. For most visitors, however, swimming is best approached with caution. Outside summer, cooler water temperatures and energetic seas make a wetsuit advisable. White Rock offers a dramatic and scenic coastal experience, but ocean conditions need to be carefully assessed before entering the water.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

White Rock Point

⭐ 3/5
11.2°C

Gnarlies

⭐ 3/5
12.7°C

Dolphin Bay

⭐ 3/5
11.5°C
3 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Seconds (White Rock)

⭐ 4/5
13.0°C

White Rock - The Spit

⭐ 4/5
12.2°C
4 km away 📍 Beach and reef

The Desert

⭐ 3/5
13.5°C

God Squad

⭐ 3/5
12.6°C

Schnappes

⭐ 3/5
13.3°C

Tora-Shipwreck

⭐ 3/5
11.3°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in White Rock today?
Sea water temperature in White Rock in the Pacific Ocean today is 12°C.
What is the water temperature in White Rock during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in White Rock typically ranges from 13°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in White Rock during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in White Rock typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in White Rock during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in White Rock typically ranges from 10°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in White Rock during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in White Rock typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the White Rock area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the White Rock area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to White Rock?
Some of the closest surf spots near White Rock include: Dolphin Bay, White Rock Point, Gnarlies, Seconds (White Rock), White Rock - The Spit.