Maitland – water temperature at Hunter River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Maitland, located on the Hunter River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Hunter River at Maitland today is 23°C.
Water Temperature in Hunter River at Maitland: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River water between 20 and 25°C is ideal for swimming and offers very comfortable conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and settled weather, this range is perfect for extended swims and family-friendly activities. Rivers may still feel slightly cooler than lakes due to gentle currents, which many swimmers find refreshing. Even on partly cloudy days, swimming remains enjoyable.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in Maitland have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Maitland will be 24.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 24.1°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 24.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 23.2°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | 23.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 24.3°C | 23.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 24.3°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 24.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 24.3°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 25 | 24.3°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 26 | 24.3°C | 24.0°C | |
| Mar 27 | 24.3°C | 24.1°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 Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| February | 18°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| March | 23°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| May | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| July | 12°C | 13°C | 13°C |
| August | 13°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 23°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| December | 25°C | 26°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Maitland sits on the lower inland reaches of the Hunter River, where the river widens and slows as it heads toward the coast. Water temperature here reflects the warm temperate climate of the Lower Hunter. In summer, from December to February, the river around Maitland is typically around 20–24°C, sometimes feeling a bit warmer in sheltered sections during hot, still days. Spring and autumn are mild, with water temperatures generally sitting between 16–20°C. Winter is cooler but not extreme, usually around 12–15°C, especially after cold nights. Rainfall upstream and local flows can influence both temperature and clarity at short notice.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Hunter River at Maitland is technically allowed, but it’s not especially common. While summer water temperatures can be comfortable, the river here is influenced by variable flows and occasional flooding. Strong currents after rain, reduced visibility and submerged debris make swimming less appealing at times. Water quality can also vary, particularly after storm events. For these reasons, locals tend to be selective, choosing only calm, familiar spots and settled weather if they do swim. More often, people around Maitland head to nearby beaches, pools or designated swimming areas. The Hunter at Maitland is better suited to riverside walks, fishing and boating than regular swimming.