Turakina River – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Turakina River 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

13.8°C

Yesterday

15.6°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Turakina River today is 14°C.

Water Temperature in Turakina 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 Turakina 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 Turakina River will be 12.2°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	13.7°C	12.0°C
May 7	13.7°C	12.0°C
May 8	15.6°C	12.0°C
May 9	15.7°C	12.0°C
May 10	15.7°C	12.0°C
May 11	15.7°C	12.0°C
May 12	15.5°C	12.0°C
May 13	13.8°C	12.0°C
May 14	13.5°C	12.0°C	13.5°C
May 15		12.0°C	13.3°C
May 16		12.0°C	13.1°C
May 17		12.0°C	12.9°C
May 18		12.0°C	12.8°C
May 19		12.0°C	12.6°C
May 20		12.0°C	12.4°C
May 21		12.0°C	12.2°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	17°C	22°C	27°C
February	13°C	20°C	27°C
March	13°C	19°C	24°C
April	10°C	15°C	19°C
May	8°C	12°C	16°C
June	4°C	9°C	14°C
July	4°C	9°C	13°C
August	6°C	10°C	13°C
September	8°C	12°C	16°C
October	10°C	15°C	19°C
November	11°C	17°C	23°C
December	14°C	20°C	25°C

Turakina River: Weather Forecast

May 15

4°C / 14°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 6 km/h

May 16

3°C / 13°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 10 km/h

May 17

3°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 7 km/h

May 18

5°C / 15°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 19

2°C / 15°C

mainly clear

rain: 0% | wind: 13 km/h

Location & Local Information

Source 5 km (3.1 mi) south west of Waiouru • coordinates 39°31′0″S 175°37′57″E • elevation 900 metres (3,000 ft) Mouth Tasman Sea • location Koitiata • coordinates 40°03′58″S 175°07′35″E • elevation Sea level Length 137 kilometres

The Turakina River flows through rolling farmland in the Manawatū–Whanganui region before reaching the Tasman Sea south of Whanganui. As a smaller river without alpine sources, its water temperature responds more directly to seasonal air temperatures and rainfall. In winter, the river is generally cool, with temperatures around 8–12°C. Through spring, conditions gradually warm to approximately 12–16°C. During summer, especially in January and February, slower-moving pools and sheltered bends can reach about 17–22°C on warm days. In autumn, temperatures typically ease back to between 13 and 17°C. After heavy rain, runoff from surrounding catchments can briefly lower temperatures and increase turbidity.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in parts of the Turakina River, and local residents often use calmer pools for a dip during the warmer months. The most comfortable swimming conditions usually occur in mid to late summer when water temperatures are near or above 18°C and river levels are steady. However, swimmers should be mindful of variable currents, submerged logs and changes in depth. It is advisable to avoid swimming after significant rainfall, when flows can rise quickly and water clarity may decrease. As with other New Zealand rivers, checking local water quality updates before entering the water is recommended to ensure safe swimming conditions.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Turakina River?

The water temperature in Turakina River today is 14°C.

What is the water temperature in Turakina River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Turakina River at Wangi Wangi typically range from 13°C to 27°C.

Is it possible to swim in Turakina River (Manawatū–Whanganui)?

Yes — people do swim in the Turakina River, but conditions change quickly: flows and currents can be strong and the water is often cool even in summer, so choose sheltered, shallow spots and supervise children. Always check current river and water-quality updates from Horizons Regional Council or local signage and avoid swimming for at least 48 hours after heavy rain; when in doubt stick to monitored freshwater sites.