Tukituki River – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Tukituki River in Hawke's Bay. 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 Tukituki River today is 9°C.
Water Temperature in Tukituki River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ River water below 10°C is very cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even on a warm day, rivers at this temperature can quickly cause cold shock and numbness due to flowing water and shaded banks. Swimming is usually limited to brief cold dips or experienced cold-water swimmers. Overcast weather or cool air temperatures make river swimming especially uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Tukituki 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 Tukituki River will be 11.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19 | 16.7°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 20 | 16.7°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 21 | 16.6°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 22 | 16.7°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 23 | 16.8°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 24 | 16.8°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 25 | 9.3°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 26 | 9.3°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 27 | 9.3°C | 11.6°C | 9.3°C |
| Aug 28 | 11.6°C | 9.6°C | |
| Aug 29 | 11.6°C | 9.9°C | |
| Aug 30 | 11.6°C | 10.2°C | |
| Aug 31 | 11.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| Sep 1 | 11.6°C | 10.7°C | |
| Sep 2 | 11.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| Sep 3 | 11.6°C | 11.3°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 | 15°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| February | 16°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| March | 15°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| April | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| May | 7°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| July | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| August | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| September | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| October | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| November | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| December | 14°C | 21°C | 27°C |
Tukituki River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Waipukurau
Tukituki River: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
Location & Local Information
Source Ruahine Ranges Mouth Pacific Ocean • location Haumoana • coordinates 39°36′S 176°57′E • elevation Sea level Length 117 kilometres
The Tukituki River flows through central Hawke’s Bay, winding from the Ruahine Ranges past farmland and vineyards before reaching the Pacific Ocean near Haumoana. As a mainly lowland river without direct glacial sources, its water temperature responds closely to seasonal air temperatures. In winter, temperatures are generally around 8–12°C. During spring, the river gradually warms to approximately 12–16°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, calmer pools and wider sections can reach about 18–23°C on hot, settled days. In autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 14 and 18°C. After heavy rain, cooler runoff from the ranges can briefly lower temperatures and increase river flow.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed in suitable parts of the Tukituki River, and it is a popular choice for locals during the warmer months. The most comfortable conditions are typically in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach or exceed 18°C and river levels are stable. However, swimmers should be aware of moderate currents, variable depths and occasional algae growth during prolonged warm periods. It is advisable to avoid swimming after significant rainfall, when flows can rise quickly and water clarity may decrease. Checking local water quality updates before entering the water is recommended to ensure safe swimming conditions.