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
The water temperature in Turakina River today is 9°C.
Water Temperature in Turakina 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 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 10.9°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 | 15.1°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 20 | 15.1°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 21 | 15.0°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 22 | 15.1°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 23 | 15.5°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 24 | 15.5°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 25 | 9.2°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 9.2°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 9.2°C | 11.1°C | 9.2°C |
| Aug 28 | 11.1°C | 9.4°C | |
| Aug 29 | 11.1°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 30 | 11.1°C | 9.9°C | |
| Aug 31 | 11.1°C | 10.2°C | |
| Sep 1 | 11.1°C | 10.4°C | |
| Sep 2 | 11.1°C | 10.6°C | |
| Sep 3 | 11.1°C | 10.9°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
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
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.