Swimming in New Zealand in january 2025 Sea temperature by city in january

In january in New Zealand swimming conditions vary by city. Details below:

Swimming in january in Auckland, Tauranga, Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Reinga, Castlepoint, Cathedral Cove, Coromandel, Hokitika, Māhia, Mokau, Napier, Nelson, Omamari, Porangahau, Ruatoria, Waiheke Island, Waitārere Beach, Wharariki beach, Whatipu Beach, Gisborne, Greymouth, Hawera, Kaitaia, Kerikeri, New Plymouth, Opunake, Raglan, Ruakaka, Takaka, Thames, Waihi Beach, Wairoa, Waitara, Waiuku, Wanganui, Warkworth, Westport, Whakatane and Whangamata is possible but the sea is generally cool. So though the sea temperature may sometimes reach 73°F, it can also go as low as 65°F. Note that the average is 69°F.

Swimming in january in Christchurch, Wellington, Akaroa, Blenheim, Kaikoura, Levin, Oamaru, Paraparaumu, Picton, Porirua and Timaru is possible... with a wetsuit! Indeed, the water is cold at this time of year with an average temperature of 61°F (min: 57°F/max: 65°F).

Forget about swimming in Dunedin, The Catlins, Invercargill, Moeraki Boulders, Otago Peninsula, Stewart Island and Balclutha in january! The water temperature is freezing, reaching as low as 52°F (and only 60°F at the best of times). Our advice: plan on sightseeing, and don't bring your beach towel!