Story: Ocean currents and tides

Wave height around New Zealand

Wave height around New Zealand

Oceanographers use the term ‘significant wave height’ as a measure of the larger waves in a sea. It is the average measurement of the highest one-third of waves. This map shows the average significant wave height around New Zealand over 20 years. The southern coast generally has the largest waves and the north-eastern coast the smallest.

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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 - Waves', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/map/5924/wave-height-around-new-zealand (accessed 20 April 2024)

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