Buller River – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Buller River in Tasman Region. Here you can view recent temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. A 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of swimming suitability are also included.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Buller River today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Buller River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Buller River have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Buller River will be 10.3°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 6 | 12.9°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 7 | 12.9°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 8 | 13.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 9 | 13.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 10 | 13.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 11 | 13.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 12 | 13.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 13 | 13.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 14 | 12.7°C | 10.0°C | 12.7°C |
| May 15 | 10.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| May 16 | 10.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 17 | 10.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| May 18 | 10.0°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 19 | 10.0°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 20 | 10.0°C | 10.7°C | |
| May 21 | 10.0°C | 10.3°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of New Zealand to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| February | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| March | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| May | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| July | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| August | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| September | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| October | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| November | 8°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| December | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
Buller River: Water Temperature by Location
Murchison
Westport
Buller River: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Source Southern Alps (Saint Arnaud Range) • location Lake Rotoiti, New Zealand • coordinates 41°48′10″S 172°49′20″E • elevation 620 m (2,030 ft) Mouth Tasman Sea • location Karamea Bight, New Zealand • coordinates 41°43′45″S 171°35′20″E • elevation 0 m (0 ft) Length 177 km (110 mi)
The Buller River flows from Lake Rotoiti through alpine valleys and dense bush before reaching the Tasman Sea on the West Coast. Its water temperature is shaped by mountain sources, heavy rainfall, and strong seasonal contrasts. In summer, the river typically reaches around 15–19 °C, which feels cool but refreshing on warm days, especially in slower side channels and sheltered bends. During spring and autumn, temperatures usually sit between 11–15 °C. In winter, the water becomes very cold, often around 7–10 °C, reflecting snowmelt and low air temperatures in the upper catchment.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Buller River is allowed and does take place during summer, mainly at known calm spots close to the riverbank. When weather is settled and flows are moderate, people enjoy short swims or cooling off in quieter sections. However, the Buller is a large and powerful river, with fast currents and rapidly changing conditions after heavy rain. Water levels can rise quickly, and clarity can reduce, making swimming unsafe at times. Even in summer, the cool temperature means most swims are brief rather than extended. Outside the warmer months, cold water and stronger flows generally discourage swimming. Overall, the Buller River offers refreshing summer swimming opportunities in suitable locations, while for much of the year it is better appreciated for its dramatic scenery and the sense of scale it brings to the West Coast landscape.