Martinborough – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Martinborough 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

12.5°C

Today

13.1°C

Yesterday

14.8°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough today is 13°C.

Water Temperature in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough: 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 Martinborough 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 Martinborough will be 11.2°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	12.6°C	11.0°C
May 7	12.6°C	11.0°C
May 8	14.8°C	11.0°C
May 9	14.8°C	11.0°C
May 10	14.9°C	11.0°C
May 11	14.9°C	11.0°C
May 12	14.7°C	11.0°C
May 13	13.1°C	11.0°C
May 14	12.5°C	11.0°C	12.5°C
May 15		11.0°C	12.3°C
May 16		11.0°C	12.1°C
May 17		11.0°C	11.9°C
May 18		11.0°C	11.8°C
May 19		11.0°C	11.6°C
May 20		11.0°C	11.4°C
May 21		11.0°C	11.2°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	14°C	19°C	24°C
February	14°C	19°C	24°C
March	12°C	17°C	22°C
April	9°C	14°C	18°C
May	7°C	11°C	15°C
June	5°C	10°C	14°C
July	5°C	8°C	11°C
August	5°C	9°C	12°C
September	6°C	12°C	17°C
October	7°C	12°C	17°C
November	9°C	15°C	20°C
December	11°C	17°C	23°C

Martinborough: 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

Martinborough, in the southern Wairarapa of the Wellington Region, lies near the lower stretches of the Ruamāhanga River as it makes its way toward Lake Wairarapa. In this part of the catchment, water temperatures are influenced mainly by seasonal air temperatures and rainfall patterns. During winter, the river is generally cool, with temperatures around 9–12°C. In spring, values typically rise to between 12 and 16°C. Through summer, especially in January and February, calmer reaches and deeper pools near Martinborough can warm to approximately 18–23°C on fine days. By autumn, temperatures usually settle back to around 14–18°C. Periods of heavy rain can briefly lower temperatures and increase river flow.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in suitable sections of the Ruamāhanga River near Martinborough, and it can be a pleasant option during warm summer weather. The most comfortable conditions are usually when water temperatures reach or exceed 18°C and river levels are stable. However, swimmers should be mindful of moderate currents, uneven gravel beds and changing depths. It is advisable to avoid swimming after significant rainfall, when flows rise and water clarity may be reduced. Checking local water quality updates before entering the river helps ensure safe swimming conditions.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough?

The water temperature in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough today is 13°C.

What is the water temperature in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough at Wangi Wangi typically range from 11°C to 24°C.

Is it possible to swim in Ruamāhanga River at Martinborough (Wellington Region)?

Yes — people do swim in parts of the Ruamāhanga around Martinborough, especially in the slower, deeper pools during summer, but the river is unpatrolled and can have strong currents, submerged hazards and variable temperatures. Avoid swimming after heavy rain because of fast flows and possible farm runoff contamination, check local signage or council water-quality updates, and always swim with someone and use a lifejacket if conditions are uncertain.