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

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

As for Auckland, Tauranga, Cathedral Cove, Coromandel, Omamari, Whatipu Beach, Kerikeri, Ruakaka, Thames, Waihi Beach, Whakatane and Whangamata, swimming is pleasant in march. The sea water is 70°F on average (min: 68°F/max: 72°F) so you can easily spend time in the water.

Swimming in march in Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Reinga, Castlepoint, Hokitika, Māhia, Mokau, Napier, Nelson, Porangahau, Ruatoria, Waiheke Island, Waitārere Beach, Wharariki beach, Blenheim, Gisborne, Greymouth, Hawera, Kaitaia, New Plymouth, Opunake, Picton, Raglan, Takaka, Wairoa, Waitara, Waiuku, Wanganui, Warkworth and Westport is possible but the sea is generally cool. So though the sea temperature may sometimes reach 66°F, it can also go as low as 63°F. Note that the average is 65°F.

Swimming in march in Christchurch, Wellington, Akaroa, Kaikoura, Levin, Oamaru, Paraparaumu, Porirua and Timaru is possible... with a wetsuit! Indeed, the water is cold at this time of year with an average temperature of 60°F (min: 58°F/max: 62°F).

Forget about swimming in Dunedin, The Catlins, Invercargill, Moeraki Boulders, Otago Peninsula, Stewart Island and Balclutha in march! The water temperature is freezing, reaching as low as 54°F (and only 58°F at the best of times). Our advice: plan on sightseeing, and don't bring your beach towel!