Oceanic and coastal water temperatures highest since the series began

Between 2022 and 2023, oceanic and coastal waters around Aotearoa New Zealand reached their warmest annual temperatures since the series began in 1982, according to data released by Stats NZ.

Since 1982, sea-surface temperatures increased on average by between 0.16 to 0.26°C per decade (equivalent to 0.63 to 1.05°C during the recorded period) across oceanic regions, with the Tasman Sea having the highest average rate.

Coastal regions warmed on average by between 0.19 to 0.34°C per decade (equivalent to 0.74 to 1.35°C during the recorded period), with East Coast South Island having the highest average rate.

Each oceanic and coastal region experienced their hottest years ever recorded in either 2022 or 2023.