Lake Horowhenua – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Horowhenua in Manawatū–Whanganui. 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

14.7°C

Today

15.3°C

Yesterday

17.3°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Horowhenua today is 15°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Horowhenua: 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 Horowhenua 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 Horowhenua will be 13.0°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	14.9°C	12.7°C
May 7	16.6°C	12.7°C
May 8	17.3°C	12.7°C
May 9	17.4°C	12.7°C
May 10	17.4°C	12.7°C
May 11	17.4°C	12.7°C
May 12	15.5°C	12.7°C
May 13	15.3°C	12.7°C
May 14	14.7°C	12.7°C	14.7°C
May 15		12.7°C	14.5°C
May 16		12.7°C	14.2°C
May 17		12.7°C	14.0°C
May 18		12.7°C	13.7°C
May 19		12.7°C	13.5°C
May 20		12.7°C	13.2°C
May 21		12.7°C	13.0°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	12°C	19°C	25°C
February	14°C	20°C	25°C
March	14°C	19°C	23°C
April	10°C	15°C	19°C
May	8°C	13°C	17°C
June	5°C	10°C	14°C
July	5°C	9°C	13°C
August	4°C	9°C	13°C
September	8°C	12°C	16°C
October	9°C	14°C	19°C
November	10°C	16°C	22°C
December	12°C	18°C	24°C

Lake Horowhenua: Weather Forecast

May 15

5°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

May 16

4°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 12 km/h

May 17

2°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 6 km/h

May 18

2°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 13 km/h

May 19

6°C / 15°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Horowhenua, in the Manawatū–Whanganui region at Levin, is a shallow coastal lake bordered by parkland and wetlands. Its limited depth means water temperatures respond quickly to seasonal air changes. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 9–13°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 13–17°C as days become milder. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow areas can reach about 19–24°C on warm, settled days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 14 and 18°C. Wind can mix the shallow water, and rainfall may influence short-term temperature and clarity.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is not recommended at Lake Horowhenua. Although summer temperatures may feel comfortable when above 19°C, water quality has historically been affected by nutrient enrichment and algal blooms, especially during prolonged warm periods. As a result, recreational contact with the water is often discouraged. The lake is better known for walking tracks, birdlife and cultural significance rather than swimming. Anyone considering entering the water should first check current regional water quality guidance. For most visitors, Lake Horowhenua is enjoyed from the shore rather than as a swimming destination.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Horowhenua?

The water temperature in Lake Horowhenua today is 15°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Horowhenua at Wangi Wangi typically range from 12°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Horowhenua (Manawatū–Whanganui)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Horowhenua in summer, but water quality is variable and the lake is prone to algal blooms and low clarity at times. Always check current water-quality notices or signage from Horowhenua District or regional council, avoid swimming after heavy rain or when scums are present, and take care with children and pets.