Clutha River / Mata-Au (at Clutha River at Balclutha, Otago): Level & Flow Conditions
Real-time river flow in cumecs (m³/s), water stage (m), water temperature, and activity suitability ratings at Clutha River at Balclutha, Otago, New Zealand.
Clutha River / Mata-Au
Gauging Station: Clutha River at Balclutha · Catchment: Clutha River Basin
River Condition Score
River level is within normal Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) range.
Prime conditions for swimming, canoeing, and angling.
Select Activity to Tune Scoring
Scoring algorithm recalibrates suitability according to water depth, stream power, and weather.
24-Hour River Level Trend (m)
BoM telemetry vs. typical normal bounds
River Access & Safety Info
BoM telemetry & public river access points
Frequently Asked Questions About Clutha River / Mata-Au
What is the current river level and flow of Clutha River / Mata-Au?
Current river flow for Clutha River / Mata-Au is measured in cumecs (m³/s) and water level (m) at regional monitoring station #[email protected],169.7400 (Clutha River at Balclutha). Telemetry is updated continuously.
Is Clutha River / Mata-Au safe for rafting, kayaking, swimming, or trout angling today?
River conditions depend on live streamflow volume and velocity. Riverable New Zealand provides a real-time 1–10 River Activity Score tuned for wild swimming, canoeing, whitewater kayaking, and trout angling. Check the live status badge above before entering the water.
What is the typical normal flow range for Clutha River / Mata-Au?
The typical baseline flow range at this reach is between 380 m³/s and 1100 m³/s. Levels within this window represent standard navigable conditions.
Can heavy rain in the Southern Alps or ranges cause Clutha River / Mata-Au to rise rapidly?
Yes, catchment precipitation and alpine runoff directly cause river levels to surge into flash freshets. Riverable New Zealand monitors 7-day cumulative precipitation and upstream weather models to alert users to rising spate conditions.
Real-time telemetry for monitoring reach #[email protected],169.7400 (Clutha River at Balclutha) is provisional and subject to ongoing quality assurance. New Zealand alpine river flows can fluctuate rapidly during heavy precipitation or snowmelt. Always check regional council flood notices, wear a certified PFD, and observe Didymo biosecurity rules.