Lake Āniwaniwa – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Āniwaniwa in Bay of Plenty Region. 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

15.6°C

Today

15.7°C

Yesterday

17.9°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Āniwaniwa today is 16°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Āniwaniwa: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A lake temperature of 15 to 20°C is considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm days with light winds, this range allows for relaxed swimming, especially in shallow or sheltered areas. Comfort depends strongly on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler or overcast weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is common during spring and early summer.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Lake Āniwaniwa 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 Lake Āniwaniwa will be 12.5°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	15.5°C	12.0°C
May 7	15.5°C	12.0°C
May 8	17.9°C	12.0°C
May 9	17.9°C	12.0°C
May 10	16.3°C	12.0°C
May 11	16.3°C	12.0°C
May 12	16.1°C	12.0°C
May 13	15.7°C	12.0°C
May 14	15.6°C	12.0°C	15.6°C
May 15		12.0°C	15.2°C
May 16		12.0°C	14.7°C
May 17		12.0°C	14.3°C
May 18		12.0°C	13.8°C
May 19		12.0°C	13.4°C
May 20		12.0°C	12.9°C
May 21		12.0°C	12.5°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual lake water temperatures may differ from the reported values by several degrees, particularly during periods of strong winds or rapid weather changes. Wind can mix surface and deeper layers in a lake, bringing cooler water to the surface, while shallow areas may warm more quickly under direct sunlight. Air temperature, sunshine, and cloud cover strongly influence how quickly a lake heats up or cools down. These factors can lead to noticeable temperature variations across different parts of the lake.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time lake temperature observations, historical trends, seasonal cycles, wind strength and direction, and region-specific air temperature. To enhance accuracy, we also incorporate data from nearby monitored locations and comparable lakes within New Zealand.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Today	Yesterday	A Week Ago
January	13°C	17°C	21°C
February	14°C	18°C	22°C
March	12°C	16°C	19°C
April	10°C	14°C	17°C
May	6°C	11°C	15°C
June	7°C	11°C	14°C
July	6°C	10°C	13°C
August	7°C	10°C	13°C
September	9°C	12°C	15°C
October	10°C	14°C	17°C
November	11°C	15°C	18°C
December	12°C	16°C	20°C

Lake Āniwaniwa: Weather Forecast

May 15

6°C / 16°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

May 16

6°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 17

6°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 15 km/h

May 18

3°C / 17°C

overcast

rain: 8% | wind: 12 km/h

May 19

-1°C / 16°C

overcast

snow: 8% | wind: 6 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Āniwaniwa, in the Bay of Plenty Region within Te Urewera, is a hydro lake formed on the Rangitaiki River and surrounded by native forest. Its inland location and moderate depth influence water temperatures through the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 9–13°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 13–17°C as air temperatures rise. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered near-shore areas can reach about 18–23°C on warm, settled days, while deeper water remains slightly cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 14 and 18°C. Changes in river inflow and weather can cause short-term fluctuations.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at suitable access points around Lake Āniwaniwa, and it can be enjoyable during the warmer months when water temperatures exceed 18°C. The most comfortable conditions are typically in mid to late summer on calm days with light winds. However, swimmers should be aware of variable depths, submerged features and occasional boat activity. As with other inland lakes, it is advisable to check local water quality information before entering the water, particularly after heavy rain. Choosing recognised access areas helps ensure a safer and more pleasant freshwater swimming experience in this forested setting.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Āniwaniwa?

The water temperature in Lake Āniwaniwa today is 16°C.

What is the water temperature in Lake Āniwaniwa during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Āniwaniwa at Wangi Wangi typically range from 12°C to 21°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Āniwaniwa (Bay of Plenty Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Āniwaniwa, and during the summer months the surface temperatures are usually comfortable for recreational swimming. However, water can be much colder outside summer and near the dam or inflows, there are no lifeguards, so always check local signage and recent water‑quality advisories, swim with others and use a lifejacket if you go beyond your depth.