Auckland’s two harbours — the Waitematā to the north-east and the Manukau to the south-west — have different tidal patterns. The Waitematā is a semi-enclosed harbour with relatively predictable semi-diurnal tides (two high tides and two low tides per day), while the Manukau is shallower and tides run more strongly through the entrance.
Tidal Range
In the Waitematā Harbour (central Auckland), the tidal range is typically around 2.5–3 metres between low and high tide. Spring tides (around new and full moon) are larger; neap tides (around quarter moons) are smaller.
The Manukau Harbour has a similar tidal range but the narrow entrance at Manukau Heads means tidal currents run fast — this area is hazardous for vessels and should be crossed only when conditions are right.
Where to Find Tide Times
Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) — Tide Forecaster
Official NZ tide predictions for Auckland and all other NZ ports. Free, accurate, and updated annually.
linz.govt.nz
MetService — Tides
Tide times for Auckland and coastal locations combined with weather forecasts.
metservice.com
Tideschart.com — Auckland
Visual tide charts with a 7-day forecast and swell information.
tideschart.com
Tides and Activities
Tides matter most for fishing, kayaking, rock pooling, and crossing tidal flats. Many of Auckland’s best fishing spots — including Cornwallis Wharf and Ōrākei Wharf — fish best on an incoming tide. Sandbars and tidal estuaries at places like Ambury Regional Park and the Ōruarangi Creek estuary are accessible only at low tide.