Palmerston North – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Palmerston North 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

13.5°C

Today

13.9°C

Yesterday

15.6°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Manawatū River at Palmerston North today is 14°C.

Water Temperature in Manawatū River at Palmerston North: 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 Palmerston North 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 Palmerston North will be 12.6°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	13.6°C	12.5°C
May 7	13.6°C	12.5°C
May 8	15.6°C	12.5°C
May 9	15.7°C	12.5°C
May 10	15.7°C	12.5°C
May 11	15.7°C	12.5°C
May 12	15.6°C	12.5°C
May 13	13.9°C	12.5°C
May 14	13.5°C	12.5°C	13.5°C
May 15		12.5°C	13.4°C
May 16		12.5°C	13.3°C
May 17		12.5°C	13.1°C
May 18		12.5°C	13.0°C
May 19		12.5°C	12.9°C
May 20		12.5°C	12.8°C
May 21		12.5°C	12.6°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

Palmerston North: Weather Forecast

May 15

8°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 18 km/h

May 16

7°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 9% | wind: 18 km/h

May 17

6°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 10% | wind: 17 km/h

May 18

7°C / 14°C

mainly clear

rain: 0% | wind: 17 km/h

May 19

3°C / 15°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

Location & Local Information

Palmerston North is built along the banks of the Manawatū River, which flows through the city before crossing the plains toward the coast. Water temperatures here follow a clear seasonal pattern influenced by inland climate and river flow. In summer, the Manawatū River near Palmerston North typically reaches around 18–22 °C, which many people find comfortable for swimming during warm weather. Spring and autumn usually see temperatures between 14–18 °C. In winter, the water cools to about 10–13 °C, making it feel cold and limiting how long most people want to stay in the river.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Manawatū River around Palmerston North is allowed, but it is not as common as in smaller, less urban locations. During summer, some locals do swim at recognised access points and calmer stretches where currents are gentler. However, the river can rise quickly after heavy rain, bringing stronger flow and reduced water clarity. Urban runoff can also influence water quality at times. For these reasons, swimming is best limited to warm, settled conditions and known safe spots. Outside summer, cooler water temperatures and higher flows generally discourage swimming. Overall, Palmerston North offers occasional summer swimming opportunities in the Manawatū River, while the river is more often enjoyed year-round for walking, cycling, and its role as a green corridor through the city rather than regular time spent in the water.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Manawatū River at Palmerston North?

The water temperature in Manawatū River at Palmerston North today is 14°C.

What is the water temperature in Manawatū River at Palmerston North during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Manawatū River at Palmerston North at Wangi Wangi typically range from 12°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Manawatū River at Palmerston North (Manawatū–Whanganui)?

Yes — people do swim in the Manawatū River at Palmerston North, especially in the warmer months, but the water can be cool and conditions can change quickly after rain. Always check current local water-quality advisories and signage, swim at recognised or popular spots with a mate, and be aware of strong currents, submerged hazards and possible elevated bacteria levels after runoff.