Waipukurau – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Waipukurau 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

14.2°C

Today

14.5°C

Yesterday

16.3°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Tukituki River at Waipukurau today is 14°C.

Water Temperature in Tukituki River at Waipukurau: 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 Waipukurau 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 Waipukurau will be 11.6°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	14.3°C	11.2°C
May 7	14.3°C	11.2°C
May 8	16.3°C	11.2°C
May 9	16.3°C	11.2°C
May 10	16.3°C	11.2°C
May 11	16.3°C	11.2°C
May 12	16.2°C	11.2°C
May 13	14.5°C	11.2°C
May 14	14.2°C	11.2°C	14.2°C
May 15		11.2°C	13.8°C
May 16		11.2°C	13.5°C
May 17		11.2°C	13.1°C
May 18		11.2°C	12.7°C
May 19		11.2°C	12.3°C
May 20		11.2°C	12.0°C
May 21		11.2°C	11.6°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	11°C	16°C	20°C
February	11°C	16°C	21°C
March	11°C	16°C	21°C
April	9°C	14°C	18°C
May	6°C	11°C	15°C
June	3°C	7°C	11°C
July	3°C	7°C	10°C
August	3°C	7°C	10°C
September	5°C	8°C	11°C
October	6°C	11°C	15°C
November	7°C	13°C	18°C
December	10°C	15°C	20°C

Waipukurau: Weather Forecast

May 15

8°C / 13°C

light drizzle

rain: 0% | wind: 13 km/h

May 16

7°C / 12°C

light drizzle

rain: 15% | wind: 16 km/h

May 17

8°C / 12°C

light drizzle

rain: 21% | wind: 18 km/h

May 18

10°C / 12°C

moderate drizzle

rain: 24% | wind: 14 km/h

May 19

4°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 16 km/h

May 20

1°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 16 km/h

Location & Local Information

Waipukurau, in Central Hawke’s Bay, sits alongside the Tukituki River as it flows eastward through open farmland toward the coast. In this middle reach of the river, water temperatures vary clearly with the seasons. During winter, the Tukituki near Waipukurau is generally cool, averaging around 8–12°C. In spring, temperatures gradually increase to about 12–16°C as days become milder. Through summer, especially in January and February, slower pools and wider sections can warm to approximately 18–23°C on hot Hawke’s Bay afternoons. In autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 14 and 18°C. Heavy rainfall in the Ruahine Ranges can temporarily lower water temperatures and raise river levels.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed in suitable parts of the Tukituki River near Waipukurau, and it is a well-known local summer activity. The most comfortable conditions are typically when water temperatures reach or exceed 18°C and flows are steady. However, swimmers should be aware that currents can strengthen after rain, and river depths may vary between gravel runs and deeper pools. During extended warm periods, algae growth can occasionally affect some sections, so checking local water quality information before swimming is advisable. Choosing recognised swimming spots and avoiding high-flow conditions helps ensure a safer experience.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Tukituki River at Waipukurau?

The water temperature in Tukituki River at Waipukurau today is 14°C.

What is the water temperature in Tukituki River at Waipukurau during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Tukituki River at Waipukurau at Wangi Wangi typically range from 10°C to 21°C.

Is it possible to swim in Tukituki River at Waipukurau (Hawke's Bay)?

Yes — you can swim in the Tukituki River at Waipukurau, but the water is often cool outside summer and river conditions change quickly with flow and rainfall, so it isn’t always comfortable or safe for casual bathing. Always check Hawke's Bay Regional Council water-quality advisories and local signage, avoid swimming after heavy rain, swim with a buddy (there may be no lifeguards) and consider a wetsuit to cope with cold and currents.