Hutt River – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Hutt River in Wellington 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

12.0°C

Today

12.8°C

Yesterday

14.5°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Hutt River today is 12°C.

Water Temperature in Hutt 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

Water temperatures in Hutt River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Hutt River will be 11.1°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	12.3°C	11.0°C
May 7	12.3°C	11.0°C
May 8	14.5°C	11.0°C
May 9	14.5°C	11.0°C
May 10	14.6°C	11.0°C
May 11	14.6°C	11.0°C
May 12	14.2°C	11.0°C
May 13	12.8°C	11.0°C
May 14	12.0°C	11.0°C	12.0°C
May 15		11.0°C	11.9°C
May 16		11.0°C	11.8°C
May 17		11.0°C	11.6°C
May 18		11.0°C	11.5°C
May 19		11.0°C	11.4°C
May 20		11.0°C	11.3°C
May 21		11.0°C	11.1°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	17°C	22°C
February	12°C	17°C	22°C
March	10°C	16°C	21°C
April	8°C	12°C	16°C
May	7°C	11°C	15°C
June	5°C	10°C	14°C
July	4°C	8°C	11°C
August	5°C	9°C	12°C
September	5°C	10°C	14°C
October	6°C	13°C	19°C
November	6°C	12°C	18°C
December	9°C	14°C	19°C

Hutt River: Water Temperature by Location

🔗 Upper Hutt

Wellington Region

11.9°C

Hutt River: Weather Forecast

May 15

9°C / 13°C

light drizzle

rain: 4% | wind: 11 km/h

May 16

8°C / 12°C

light drizzle

rain: 29% | wind: 11 km/h

May 17

5°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 32% | wind: 10 km/h

May 18

4°C / 12°C

partly cloudy

rain: 6% | wind: 7 km/h

May 19

3°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 7 km/h

May 20

4°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 6% | wind: 7 km/h

Location & Local Information

Source: • location Tararua Ranges Mouth: • location Wellington Harbour • elevation 0 m (0 ft) Length 56 km

The Hutt River flows from the Tararua Ranges through Upper and Lower Hutt before entering Wellington Harbour. As a river that begins in cooler hill country and runs through urban areas, its water temperature varies clearly with the seasons. In winter, temperatures are generally around 8–12°C, particularly in the upper reaches. During spring, the river gradually warms to approximately 12–16°C. In summer, especially in January and February, calmer stretches and deeper pools can reach about 17–22°C on warm days, while faster-flowing sections may feel cooler. In autumn, temperatures typically ease back to between 13 and 17°C. Heavy rain in the ranges can briefly lower water temperatures and significantly increase flow.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in suitable parts of the Hutt River, and several popular swimming holes are used during the warmer months. The most comfortable conditions are usually in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach or exceed 18°C and river levels are steady. However, swimmers should be aware of moderate currents, variable depths and occasional debris after rainfall. It is advisable to avoid swimming during high flows or shortly after heavy rain, when water clarity may be reduced. Checking regional water quality updates before entering the river is recommended for safety.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Hutt River?

The water temperature in Hutt River today is 12°C.

What is the water temperature in Hutt River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Hutt River at Wangi Wangi typically range from 9°C to 22°C.

Is it possible to swim in Hutt River (Wellington Region)?

Yes — people do swim in parts of the Hutt River / Te Awa Kairangi in summer, but the water is often cold and conditions change quickly along the river. Always check local signage and water-quality alerts, avoid swimming after heavy rain or in fast-flowing sections, and consider a wetsuit and not swimming alone.