Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about New Zealand river levels, regional council hydrology data, typical ranges, and river safety.
How often is New Zealand river level data updated?▼
River levels (metres) and discharge flows (cumecs, m³/s) are updated continuously using regional council hydrometric networks and open data across all 16 New Zealand regions.
What do the typical normal low and high ranges mean on New Zealand river gauges?▼
Typical flow ranges represent long-term seasonal baselines. Readings below the typical low indicate low baseflow or exposed shoals, within range indicates normal navigable conditions, and above the typical high warns of strong flood velocities and rising flood alerts.
How does the River Activity Score work for New Zealand waterways?▼
Our algorithm computes an activity score (1–10) tailored specifically for Wild Swimming, Canoe Touring & Packrafting, Whitewater Kayaking, or Trout Angling. It synthesizes real-time discharge, hydrograph stability, water temperature shock risk, solunar feeding cycles, and precipitation forecasts.
Which New Zealand regions are covered?▼
Riverable New Zealand covers all 16 regions across the North Island and South Island: Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Taranaki, Manawatū-Whanganui, Wellington, Tasman, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast, Canterbury, Otago, and Southland.
What safety guidance applies to wild swimming, rafting, and paddling in New Zealand?▼
Always check current water levels before launching, beware of cold alpine water shock, check for river strainers (willow and beech trees), never enter flood spates, and strictly observe Didymo biosecurity rules (Check, Clean, Dry).
Can I embed river gauges on my club or tourism website?▼
Yes! We offer 100% free embeddable responsive river level and flow widgets. Visit our Widgets page to generate iframe snippets for any gauged river in New Zealand.