Lake Gault – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Gault in West Coast 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 Gault today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Gault: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Lake temperatures between 10 and 15°C are cold but can be manageable for short swims on sunny, warm days. Shallow areas may feel slightly warmer, while deeper sections remain cold and slow to warm up. Most swimmers keep sessions brief, and wetsuits are often used for comfort. Wind and cooler air temperatures can quickly reduce how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Gault 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 Gault will be 9.1°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 | 12.4°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 7 | 12.4°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 8 | 14.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 9 | 14.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 10 | 14.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 11 | 14.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 12 | 14.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 13 | 12.6°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 14 | 12.2°C | 8.6°C | 12.2°C |
| May 15 | 8.6°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 16 | 8.6°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 17 | 8.6°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 18 | 8.6°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 19 | 8.6°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 20 | 8.6°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 21 | 8.6°C | 9.1°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 | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| February | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| March | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| July | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| August | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| September | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| October | 2°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
Lake Gault: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
May 20
Location & Local Information
Lake Gault, in the West Coast Region near Franz Josef Glacier, is a small alpine lake reached by walking track through native forest. Set at elevation and fed by rainfall and mountain streams, its water remains cool throughout the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 5–9°C. During spring, continued snowmelt from surrounding peaks keeps the lake brisk, typically between 7 and 11°C. In summer, especially in January and February, near-shore areas may warm to approximately 11–15°C on calm, sunny days, although deeper water remains colder. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to around 8–12°C. Frequent West Coast rain can quickly affect both temperature and clarity.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed, but it is uncommon due to the consistently cool conditions and remote alpine setting. Even in mid-summer, the water feels cold, and sudden immersion may cause discomfort. The most manageable time for a brief swim is during settled summer weather when temperatures reach the low to mid teens and winds are light. Swimmers should enter gradually and be mindful of slippery rocks and rapidly changing weather. For most visitors, Lake Gault is valued more for its scenery and reflections than for swimming, and caution is recommended for anyone considering entering the water.