Gore – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Gore in Southland 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

12.9°C

Today

11.9°C

Yesterday

13.4°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Mataura River at Gore today is 13°C.

Water Temperature in Mataura River at Gore: 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 Gore have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Gore will be 9.6°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	11.9°C	9.1°C
May 7	11.9°C	9.1°C
May 8	13.4°C	9.1°C
May 9	13.4°C	9.1°C
May 10	12.1°C	9.1°C
May 11	12.1°C	9.1°C
May 12	11.9°C	9.1°C
May 13	11.9°C	9.1°C
May 14	12.9°C	9.1°C	12.9°C
May 15		9.1°C	12.4°C
May 16		9.1°C	12.0°C
May 17		9.1°C	11.5°C
May 18		9.1°C	11.0°C
May 19		9.1°C	10.5°C
May 20		9.1°C	10.1°C
May 21		9.1°C	9.6°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	10°C	16°C	21°C
February	10°C	16°C	22°C
March	6°C	14°C	21°C
April	5°C	10°C	15°C
May	5°C	9°C	13°C
June	2°C	6°C	10°C
July	1°C	5°C	8°C
August	2°C	6°C	10°C
September	2°C	8°C	13°C
October	6°C	10°C	14°C
November	8°C	13°C	17°C
December	10°C	16°C	22°C

Gore: Weather Forecast

May 15

3°C / 10°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 7 km/h

May 16

1°C / 8°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 5 km/h

May 17

1°C / 9°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 4 km/h

May 18

0°C / 8°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 4 km/h

May 19

1°C / 11°C

overcast

rain: 10% | wind: 5 km/h

Location & Local Information

Gore is located on the banks of the Mataura River, which flows steadily through the town and shapes much of its outdoor character. Water temperatures in this part of the river reflect Southland’s cool climate. In summer, the Mataura River near Gore typically reaches around 15–18 °C, which feels cool but refreshing on warm days. During spring and autumn, temperatures usually sit between 10–14 °C. In winter, the water becomes very cold, often dropping to roughly 6–9 °C, making swimming uncomfortable for most people.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Mataura River around Gore is allowed and does take place during the summer months, especially at calm, shallow sections with easy access along the riverbanks. Locals often enjoy short swims or cooling off during periods of settled weather when river levels are stable. Even in mid-summer, the water remains on the cool side, so swimming is generally brief rather than prolonged. After heavy rainfall, flow can increase quickly and water clarity may reduce, affecting suitability for swimming. Outside summer, low water temperatures and stronger currents usually discourage river swimming. Overall, Gore offers limited but possible summer swimming opportunities in the Mataura River, while for much of the year the river is better enjoyed for walking, fishing, and its scenic presence rather than regular swimming.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Mataura River at Gore?

The water temperature in Mataura River at Gore today is 13°C.

What is the water temperature in Mataura River at Gore during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Mataura River at Gore at Wangi Wangi typically range from 10°C to 22°C.

Is it possible to swim in Mataura River at Gore (Southland Region)?

Yes — you can swim in parts of the Mataura River at Gore, but the water is often cold even in summer and there can be strong currents, submerged hazards and no lifeguards. Always check local conditions and recent rainfall, stick to shallow, easily accessed spots, swim with someone else and avoid the river after heavy rain when flows and contamination risk increase.