Story: Ocean currents and tides

Sea-surface temperatures

New Zealand seas tend to be colder in the south and warmer in the north. As spring arrives, the water gradually warms and reaches peak temperatures in late summer. This map shows average sea-surface temperatures in winter (August) and summer (February) from data collected between 1993 and 2002.

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NIWA – National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research

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How to cite this page:

Craig Stevens and Stephen Chiswell, 'Ocean currents and tides - The ocean’s role in climate change', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/interactive/5931/sea-surface-temperatures (accessed 2 May 2024)

Story by Craig Stevens and Stephen Chiswell, published 12 Jun 2006