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

13.0°C

Today

13.4°C

Yesterday

13.6°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill today is 13°C.

Water Temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill: 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 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 10.8°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	13.5°C	10.5°C
May 7	13.5°C	10.5°C
May 8	13.6°C	10.5°C
May 9	13.6°C	10.5°C
May 10	12.3°C	10.5°C
May 11	12.3°C	10.5°C
May 12	12.1°C	10.5°C
May 13	13.4°C	10.5°C
May 14	13.0°C	10.5°C	13.0°C
May 15		10.5°C	12.7°C
May 16		10.5°C	12.4°C
May 17		10.5°C	12.1°C
May 18		10.5°C	11.8°C
May 19		10.5°C	11.4°C
May 20		10.5°C	11.1°C
May 21		10.5°C	10.8°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

May 15

3°C / 11°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 8 km/h

May 16

2°C / 9°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 7 km/h

May 17

2°C / 9°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 8 km/h

May 18

2°C / 9°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 13 km/h

May 19

4°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 16% | wind: 16 km/h

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.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill?

The water temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill today is 13°C.

What is the water temperature in Ōreti River at Invercargill during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Ōreti River at Invercargill at Wangi Wangi typically range from 12°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Ōreti River at Invercargill (Southland Region)?

Yes — you can have a swim in parts of the Ōreti River around Invercargill in summer, but the water is often quite cold even on warm days and water quality and safety can vary by spot. Always check the latest Environment Southland and Invercargill City Council water‑quality updates, avoid the river after heavy rain or during algal‑bloom or sewage‑outfall warnings, and take care with currents and muddy banks.