Whites Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Whites Bay in Marlborough 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

15.8°C

Today

15.8°C

Yesterday

15.8°C

A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Whites Bay: 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

Water temperatures in Whites Bayfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Whites Bay will be 14.5°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
Mar 22	16.3°C	16.0°C
Mar 23	16.1°C	15.8°C
Mar 24	15.8°C	15.5°C
Mar 25	15.6°C	15.8°C
Mar 26	15.8°C	16.0°C
Mar 27	15.9°C	15.5°C
Mar 28	15.9°C	15.8°C
Mar 29	15.8°C	16.0°C
Mar 30	15.8°C	16.0°C	15.8°C
Mar 31		15.5°C	15.6°C
Apr 1		15.3°C	15.4°C
Apr 2		14.8°C	15.2°C
Apr 3		14.0°C	15.0°C
Apr 4		13.8°C	14.9°C
Apr 5		13.8°C	14.7°C
Apr 6		13.8°C	14.5°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 Whites 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

Whites Bay is a popular beach in the Marlborough Region, set within a curved bay that opens to Cook Strait. Although the headlands provide some shelter, the water is still influenced by tidal flow and offshore swells moving through the strait. In winter, from June to August, sea temperatures generally range between 9–12°C, which feels distinctly cold and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually lift to around 11–14°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 15–18°C during settled, sunny spells. Early autumn can still see 14–16°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	14°C	16°C	19°C
February	14°C	17°C	19°C
March	14°C	16°C	19°C
April	12°C	15°C	17°C
May	11°C	14°C	17°C
June	10°C	13°C	16°C
July	10°C	12°C	15°C
August	9°C	12°C	14°C
September	10°C	12°C	14°C
October	10°C	13°C	15°C
November	11°C	14°C	16°C
December	13°C	15°C	18°C

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

Whites Bay: Weather Forecast

March 30

11°C / 24°C

overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 86% | wind: 4 kmh

March 31

8°C / 12°C

overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 76% | wind: 7 kmh

April 1

8°C / 16°C

clear sky

humidity: 71% | wind: 4 kmh

April 2

11°C / 22°C

clear sky

humidity: 75% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Whites Bay and it’s a well-used spot during the warmer months. The beach is sandy and more sheltered than many open Cook Strait locations, which can result in smaller waves on calm days. However, swell and rip currents can still develop depending on wind direction and tide. In peak summer there may be lifeguard patrols, and swimming between the flags is recommended when available. On fine summer days, the water can be refreshing and suitable for families and confident swimmers accustomed to cooler temperatures. Outside the warmer season, thermal gear is strongly recommended, as the sea remains brisk year-round despite the sheltered setting.