Lake Hauroko – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Hauroko in Southland 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 Hauroko today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Hauroko: 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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Lake Hauroko have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Hauroko will be 12.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 6 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 7 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 8 | 14.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 9 | 14.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 10 | 12.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 11 | 12.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 12 | 12.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 13 | 12.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 14 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | 13.5°C |
| May 15 | 12.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 16 | 12.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| May 17 | 12.0°C | 12.9°C | |
| May 18 | 12.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 19 | 12.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 20 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| May 21 | 12.0°C | 12.2°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 | 18°C | 23°C |
| February | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| March | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| April | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| June | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| July | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| August | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| September | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
Lake Hauroko: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Lake Hauroko, in the Southland Region, is one of New Zealand’s deepest lakes and lies within remote Fiordland surroundings. Surrounded by steep bush-clad hills and fed by mountain streams, its water remains cold for most of the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 5–8°C. During spring, snowmelt and frequent rain keep the lake brisk, typically between 7 and 11°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may warm to approximately 12–16°C on calm, sunny days, while deeper water remains significantly colder. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 8 and 13°C. Sudden weather changes can quickly affect surface conditions on this long, narrow lake.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed, but it is uncommon due to the cold water and remote location. Even in mid-summer, temperatures remain low, and the depth of the lake means it warms slowly. Those who choose to swim typically do so briefly and in sheltered shoreline spots during settled weather. Cold water immersion can be uncomfortable, so gradual entry is recommended. Strong winds can create choppy conditions, adding to the challenge. For most visitors, Lake Hauroko is appreciated more for its wilderness setting than for swimming.