Lake Benmore – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Benmore in Canterbury 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
The water temperature in Lake Benmore today is 6°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Benmore: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ Lake water below 10°C is extremely cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even during warm weather, deep lakes retain cold water, making entry uncomfortable and limiting time in the water. Swimming at this temperature is usually limited to quick dips or cold-water enthusiasts. Cool air temperatures or cloudy conditions can make lake swimming particularly harsh.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Benmore 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 Benmore will be 9.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19 | 13.5°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 20 | 13.5°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 21 | 13.5°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.0°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 23 | 13.2°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 24 | 13.2°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 25 | 5.6°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 5.6°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 27 | 5.6°C | 9.7°C | 5.6°C |
| Aug 28 | 9.7°C | 6.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 9.7°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 30 | 9.7°C | 7.1°C | |
| Aug 31 | 9.7°C | 7.7°C | |
| Sep 1 | 9.7°C | 8.2°C | |
| Sep 2 | 9.7°C | 8.7°C | |
| Sep 3 | 9.7°C | 9.2°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 | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| March | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| April | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| June | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| July | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| August | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| September | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
Lake Benmore: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
Location & Local Information
Lake Benmore, in the Canterbury Region near Ōmārama, is a large hydro lake formed on the Waitaki River. Surrounded by dry high country and rolling hills, its water temperature reflects both alpine inflows and hot inland summers. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 6–9°C. During spring, snowmelt from upstream catchments keeps the lake cool, typically between 8 and 13°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered bays and near-shore areas can warm to approximately 15–20°C on calm, sunny days, while deeper water remains cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 9 and 15°C. Wind can mix the surface layer and influence comfort levels.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at many accessible shoreline spots and campgrounds around Lake Benmore, and it is popular during the warmer months. The most comfortable conditions are usually in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach the high teens and winds are light. However, the lake is large and can become choppy in strong winds, which are common in this inland area. Swimmers should choose sheltered bays and calm days, and enter gradually due to the cool alpine influence. Checking weather conditions beforehand helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.