Motueka River – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Motueka River in Tasman 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 Motueka River today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Motueka 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 Motueka 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 Motueka River will be 9.7°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 | 13.1°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 7 | 13.1°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 8 | 13.4°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 9 | 13.4°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 10 | 13.6°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 11 | 13.6°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 12 | 13.3°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 13 | 12.0°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 14 | 11.4°C | 9.5°C | 11.4°C |
| May 15 | 9.5°C | 11.2°C | |
| May 16 | 9.5°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 17 | 9.5°C | 10.7°C | |
| May 18 | 9.5°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 19 | 9.5°C | 10.2°C | |
| May 20 | 9.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 21 | 9.5°C | 9.7°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 | 18°C | 24°C |
| February | 9°C | 17°C | 24°C |
| March | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| April | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| May | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| July | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| August | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| September | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| December | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
Motueka River: Water Temperature by Location
Motueka Valley
Motueka River: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Source: • location Red Hills in South East of catchment • elevation 1,400m Mouth: • elevation Sea level Length 116 km
The Motueka River in the Tasman District flows from the mountains of Kahurangi National Park down to Tasman Bay, passing through forested valleys and fertile plains. As a river with both alpine headwaters and lower, sun-exposed stretches, its water temperature varies through the year. In winter, temperatures are generally around 7–11°C, especially in the upper reaches. During spring, snowmelt and rainfall keep the river cool, typically between 10 and 14°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, calmer pools and wider sections near the lower valley can warm to approximately 16–20°C on settled days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to around 11–16°C. Periods of heavy rain can quickly lower temperatures and increase flow.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed in suitable sections of the Motueka River, and it is a popular activity during the warmer months. The most comfortable conditions are usually in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach or exceed the high teens and river levels are stable. However, swimmers should be mindful of steady currents, uneven riverbeds and deeper holes in some stretches. It is advisable to avoid swimming after significant rainfall, when flows can rise rapidly and water clarity may decrease. Checking local river conditions and water quality guidance before entering the water is recommended.