Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 4 years of historical weather data.
10%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
7.2kts
Avg Wind
year-round
16°
Avg Temp
feels 15°
4yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏖️
BaySpot Type
IntermediateSkill Level
NW315°Best Wind
Partially sheltered coastline with moderate, varied conditions
About This Spot
Jenkins Bay is located in New Zealand's coastal waters, characterized as a semi-enclosed bay with a river mouth creating distinctive sediment plumes. The bay features dense forest coverage on surrounding peninsulas and islands, with a mix of shallow and deeper water zones. The turquoise coloration indicates sediment-laden water from river discharge, creating visually distinct water patterns.
This spot suits intermediate kiters comfortable with variable conditions and tidal influences. Side-shore winds from the northwest (315°) provide the safest riding angles along the bay's northeast-facing shoreline. The low wind reliability (10%) and modest average wind speed (7.2 knots) suggest this is a marginal spot requiring patience and proper timing.
Key considerations include understanding tidal cycles affecting water conditions, navigating around sediment plumes that indicate current zones, and being aware of shallow areas near the shore. The river mouth dynamics create unpredictable water conditions. Average waves of 1.98m are modest, requiring adequate wind to generate usable conditions. Best visited during stronger wind periods with favorable tide states.
Hazards & Safety
Tidal currents and sediment plumes visible in imagery
River mouth dynamics creating turbid water
Shallow areas and sandbars near shore
Strong current indicators from sediment patterns
Limited fetch distance in bay configuration
Turbulent water mixing zones
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
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Wind speeds shown in knots (kt). Tap expand for full-screen view. Forecast updates every 6 hours from European weather model.
Water Conditions
Historical ocean data for wetsuit planning & water type
18°C
Avg Water Temp
2.0m
Avg Waves
🌊 Rough
Typical Conditions
🤿 3/2mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Very rough conditions, advanced only
Wind Characteristics
SWDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
13%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
24%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
14%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 4 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
5%
7kts
20°
22°
PM
~8d
Feb
6%
6kts
20°feels 21°
22°
PM
~7d
Mar
4%
6kts
19°feels 18°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water