Ōreti River – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Ōreti River 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 today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Ōreti 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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Ōreti River have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Ōreti River will be 9.4°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 | 11.4°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 7 | 11.4°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 8 | 12.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 9 | 12.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 10 | 12.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 11 | 12.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 12 | 12.6°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 13 | 12.6°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 14 | 12.2°C | 9.0°C | 12.2°C |
| May 15 | 9.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 16 | 9.0°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 17 | 9.0°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 18 | 9.0°C | 10.6°C | |
| May 19 | 9.0°C | 10.2°C | |
| May 20 | 9.0°C | 9.8°C | |
| May 21 | 9.0°C | 9.4°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 | 10°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| February | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| March | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| June | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| July | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| August | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| September | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| October | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| November | 7°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
Ōreti River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Invercargill
Ōreti River: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Source Thomson Mountains • coordinates 45°9′18″S 168°12′43″E Mouth New River Estuary • location Foveaux Strait • coordinates 46°28′S 168°17′E • elevation Sea level Length 170 kilometres (110 mi)
The Ōreti River flows from the Southland hills through open farmland and wetlands before reaching the coast near Invercargill, making it a familiar and accessible river within the Southland Region. Water temperature reflects the cool southern climate and relatively gentle gradient of the river. In summer, the Ōreti River typically warms to around 15–19 °C, which feels cool but refreshing during settled weather. Spring and autumn usually bring temperatures of about 10–14 °C. In winter, the water cools significantly, often dropping to roughly 6–9 °C, making it cold and uncomfortable for most swimmers.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Ōreti River is allowed and is most common during the summer months, particularly at known shallow reaches and river beaches where access is easy. The river is generally slower-moving than some larger Southland rivers, which makes certain sections suitable for casual swimming and cooling off on warm days. Even at its warmest, the water remains on the cool side, so swims are usually short rather than prolonged. After heavy rainfall, water levels can rise and clarity can reduce, affecting swimming conditions. Outside summer, low water temperatures discourage swimming for most people. Overall, the Ōreti River offers modest but pleasant summer swimming opportunities, while for much of the year it is better enjoyed for riverside walks and its open Southland scenery rather than regular time in the water.