Manawatū River – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Manawatū River in Manawatū–Whanganui. 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 Manawatū River today is 15°C.
Water Temperature in Manawatū River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Manawatū River have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Manawatū River will be 14.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 8 | 12.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 9 | 12.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 10 | 12.9°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 11 | 13.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 12 | 13.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 13 | 13.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 14 | 14.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 15 | 14.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| Oct 16 | 15.1°C | 14.0°C | 15.1°C |
| Oct 17 | 14.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| Oct 18 | 14.0°C | 14.8°C | |
| Oct 19 | 14.0°C | 14.7°C | |
| Oct 20 | 14.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| Oct 21 | 14.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| Oct 22 | 14.0°C | 14.3°C | |
| Oct 23 | 14.0°C | 14.1°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 | 12°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| February | 13°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| March | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| April | 10°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| June | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| July | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| August | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| September | 8°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| November | 10°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| December | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
Manawatū River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Palmerston North
Manawatū River: Weather Forecast
October 17
October 18
October 19
October 20
October 21
Location & Local Information
Source Ruahine Ranges • coordinates 40°0′53″S 176°7′1″E Mouth Tasman Sea • location Manawatū Estuary, Foxton Beach • coordinates 40°28′S 175°13′E • elevation Sea level Length 180 km (110 mi)
The Manawatū River flows from the Ruahine Range across the Manawatū Plains to the Tasman Sea, shaping much of the landscape in the Manawatū–Whanganui. Water temperature varies with season, rainfall, and river flow. In summer, the river typically warms to around 18–22 °C, which feels comfortable in slower, sun-exposed sections. During spring and autumn, temperatures usually sit between 14–18 °C. In winter, the water cools noticeably, often dropping to about 10–13 °C, making it feel cold even on mild days.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Manawatū River is allowed and does take place, mainly during the summer months when water temperatures are highest. Locals tend to swim at known calm spots near riverbanks, beaches, or popular access points where currents are gentler. However, the river can be affected by heavy rainfall upstream, leading to higher flows, stronger currents, and reduced water clarity. These changes can happen quickly and influence safety. For this reason, swimming is best enjoyed during settled summer weather and at familiar locations. Outside the warmer months, cooler temperatures and increased flow generally discourage swimming. Overall, the Manawatū River offers reasonable summer swimming opportunities in suitable sections, while for much of the year it is more often enjoyed for walking, cycling, and its role as a scenic feature of the region rather than regular time spent in the water.