Invercargill – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Invercargill 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
The water temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill today is 8°C.
Water Temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ River water below 10°C is very cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even on a warm day, rivers at this temperature can quickly cause cold shock and numbness due to flowing water and shaded banks. Swimming is usually limited to brief cold dips or experienced cold-water swimmers. Overcast weather or cool air temperatures make river swimming especially uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Invercargill 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 Invercargill will be 8.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19 | 13.7°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 20 | 13.9°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 21 | 13.8°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.6°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 23 | 13.7°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 24 | 13.7°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 25 | 7.7°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 7.7°C | 8.7°C | |
| Aug 27 | 7.7°C | 8.7°C | 7.7°C |
| Aug 28 | 8.7°C | 7.8°C | |
| Aug 29 | 8.7°C | 8.0°C | |
| Aug 30 | 8.7°C | 8.1°C | |
| Aug 31 | 8.7°C | 8.2°C | |
| Sep 1 | 8.7°C | 8.3°C | |
| Sep 2 | 8.7°C | 8.5°C | |
| Sep 3 | 8.7°C | 8.6°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 | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| February | 13°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| March | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| May | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| June | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| July | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| August | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| September | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| December | 12°C | 19°C | 25°C |
Invercargill: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
Location & Local Information
Invercargill is located close to the lower reaches of the Ōreti River, which flows through flat Southland countryside before reaching the coast. Water temperature in this part of the river reflects the region’s cool southern climate. In summer, the Ōreti River near Invercargill typically reaches around 15–19 °C, feeling 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 around 6–9 °C, making it unsuitable for prolonged immersion.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Ōreti River around Invercargill is allowed and is most common during the summer months, particularly at known shallow sections and river beaches with easy access. The river’s relatively gentle flow compared with larger Southland rivers makes certain areas suitable for casual swimming and cooling off in settled weather. Even in mid-summer, the water remains on the cool side, so most swims are short rather than extended. After heavy rain, water levels can rise and clarity can reduce, affecting comfort and safety. Outside the warmer months, low temperatures generally discourage swimming. Overall, Invercargill offers limited but pleasant summer swimming opportunities in the Ōreti River, while for much of the year the river is better enjoyed as a scenic feature and for riverside recreation rather than regular swimming.