Sea temperatures, water sports and vacation activities near Kaikoura, New Zealand

Water temperatures throughout the year and general information about Kaikoura...

Kaikoura is a coastal city in New Zealand. It is a fairly small-sized town close to the water with a population of 2172 people. The water temperature around Kaikoura varies slightly during the year. The temperature ranges from 10.3°C (50.5°F) in July up to 17°C (62.7°F) in the month of February, as shown in the interactive table below. The average water temperature throughout the year is 13°C (55°F) and the best time for water activities is late winter, since Kaikoura is located in the southern hemisphere.
Hover over the bars to see temperature for each month in Celsius and Fahrenheit.

What is the current water temperature near Kaikoura?

The current water temperature in the month of December near Kaikoura is ca:

Are there surf spots in close proximity to Kaikoura?

Yes, there are a few surf spots close to Kaikoura. The nearest one is Kahutara, which is just 5km (5miles) away from Kaikoura. Click here for directions and to check out more information on Kahutara and its water temperature. Other good surfspots near Kaikoura are Mangamaunu, which is ca 8km (5miles) away, and Kekerengu, located roughly 32.7km (20.3miles) from Kaikoura.

Are there sandy beaches close by?

There are not too many beaches in proximity to Kaikoura. The next good one is Boulder Beach, which is just 71.9km (44.7miles) away from Kaikoura. Another good beach near Kaikoura is Worser Bay, approximately 96.3km (59.8miles) away.

Which wetsuit thickness do I need for Kaikoura?

The sea temperature around Kaikoura is relatively cold, reaching up to 17°C (63°F) in the months of January, February, and March. During this time, in the late summer, a 2-3mm wetsuit might be required to feel comfortable, but some people might even be fine with a jumpsuit or even a wetsuit top for surfing, swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving around Kaikoura. However, during June, July, and August, temperatures reach lows of 10°C (50°F). In this season, a 5/4 wetsuit is required to be able to stay in the water for a significant amount of time, but some might even be fine with a very high-quality 4/3mm suit for short amounts of time . For very chilly conditions and cold mornings/evenings, it might be better to carry a pair of boots, a hoodie and a gloves.

How is the diving and fishing close to Kaikoura?

Due to significant temperature changes during the year, fishing and diving conditions vary quite a bit depending on the time of the year. The temperature ranges from 10 to 15°C (50-59°F) during June, July, and August. Atlantic Mackerel, Winter Flounder, and Tautog love this temperature range. However, the conditions usually change during January, February, and March when temperatures range from 12 to 17°C (54-63°F). Fish that can often times be found in waters with these temperatures include: Red Snapper, Skipjack Tuna, Striped Bass, and Weakfish.

Directions to Kaikoura: How do I get there?

Please follow the directions in the map below.

Fun facts about Kaikoura...

Do you know what the the city Vigo in the Philippines, the city Ladushkin in the Russia, and the city Zalewo in the Poland have in common with Kaikoura? Click on the links to find out...