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Lake Ferry – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Lake Ferry in Wellington Region. You can view recent sea temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby beaches with similar conditions, local weather information, and a summary of swimming conditions to help you assess how suitable the water is for swimming.

Lake Ferry
Lake Ferry © By Marshelec, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

11.7°C
Today
11.7°C
Yesterday
11.8°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Lake Ferry is about 12°C.

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

❌ This is very cold water, causing an immediate cold shock response for most people. Swimming is not recommended without a wetsuit, and even with protection, time in the water should be limited. These temperatures are typically suited only to trained or well-prepared swimmers.

It’s important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in settled weather. When air temperatures drop below 20°C — and sometimes even below 25°C — swimming can feel uncomfortable, even when water temperatures are relatively high.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

From July 28 to August 27

Water temperatures in Lake Ferry have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Lake Ferry will be 12.2°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
Aug 1911.9°C12.0°C
Aug 2011.9°C12.0°C
Aug 2111.8°C12.5°C
Aug 2211.8°C11.8°C
Aug 2311.4°C12.3°C
Aug 2411.2°C12.3°C
Aug 2511.5°C12.5°C
Aug 2611.7°C12.3°C
Aug 2711.7°C12.3°C11.7°C
Aug 2812.5°C11.8°C
Aug 2912.0°C11.8°C
Aug 3012.3°C11.9°C
Aug 3112.5°C12.0°C
Sep 112.5°C12.1°C
Sep 212.5°C12.1°C
Sep 312.5°C12.2°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

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

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual near-shore water temperatures in Lake Ferry can vary by several degrees from the values shown, particularly after heavy rain, strong southerlies, or prolonged windy conditions. Certain wind patterns can trigger upwelling, where cooler, deeper water is pushed to the surface and replaces the warmer top layer, leading to noticeable short-term changes in water temperature.

Our water temperature forecast is produced using a proprietary mathematical model that combines real-time measurements with long-term historical patterns, local weather conditions, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each coastal region. To improve accuracy, we cross-check data from nearby locations and use multiple sources, including offshore buoys, satellite-based sea surface maps, and observations provided by local authorities.

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Lake Ferry is a small coastal settlement at the southern end of the Wairarapa in the Wellington Region, where Lake Onoke meets the Pacific Ocean. Sea temperatures here reflect the cooler conditions typical of the lower North Island. In winter, from June to August, the ocean generally ranges between 10–13°C, which feels very cold and is usually only comfortable for surfers or swimmers wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures lift gradually to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still see the water around 15–17°C before it cools again.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January14°C17°C20°C
February15°C18°C21°C
March14°C17°C20°C
April14°C16°C19°C
May12°C15°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July11°C13°C16°C
August10°C12°C16°C
September11°C13°C16°C
October10°C13°C16°C
November12°C14°C18°C
December13°C15°C20°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Lake Ferry: Weather Forecast

August 28

11°C / 16°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 81% | wind: 40 kmh

August 29

9°C / 12°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 74% | wind: 22 kmh

August 30

7°C / 14°C
light rain
humidity: 72% | wind: 29 kmh

August 31

7°C / 13°C
light rain
humidity: 75% | wind: 32 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Lake Ferry, both in the ocean and at times in the lake itself, but conditions can be changeable. The ocean beach is exposed to Cook Strait influences, with strong currents, shifting channels and surf that can build quickly depending on wind and tide. There are generally no regular lifeguard patrols, so swimmers need to be confident and assess conditions carefully. On calm summer days, short swims can be refreshing, particularly for those used to cooler water. Outside the warmer months, lower temperatures and energetic seas make a wetsuit advisable. Lake Ferry offers a dramatic coastal setting, but the water environment requires caution and respect year-round.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Baches

⭐ 2/5
11.9°C

Whatarangi Station

⭐ 2/5
10.7°C

Whatarangi Point and Bombora

⭐ 2/5
12.6°C

Humenga Point

⭐ 4/5
10.9°C

Pararaki Stream

⭐ 2/5
10.6°C

Otakaha Stream

⭐ 2/5
12.5°C

Humenga Lodge

⭐ 3/5
10.5°C

Dee Dees

⭐ 3/5
12.3°C

Ning Nong Point and Reef

⭐ 4/5
12.1°C
20 km away 📍 Reef and point

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Lake Ferry today?
Sea water temperature in Lake Ferry in the Cook Strait today is 12°C.
What is the water temperature in Lake Ferry during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Lake Ferry typically ranges from 13°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Lake Ferry during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Lake Ferry typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Lake Ferry during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Lake Ferry typically ranges from 10°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Lake Ferry during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Lake Ferry typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Lake Ferry area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Lake Ferry area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Lake Ferry?
Some of the closest surf spots near Lake Ferry include: Baches, Whatarangi Station, Whatarangi Point and Bombora, Humenga Point, Pararaki Stream.