Lake Kohangapiripiri – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Kohangapiripiri in Wellington 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

14.8°C

Today

15.9°C

Yesterday

16.2°C

A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Lake Kohangapiripiri: 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 Kohangapiripiri 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 Kohangapiripiri will be 12.0°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 7	15.3°C	11.6°C
May 8	15.3°C	11.6°C
May 9	16.2°C	11.6°C
May 10	16.2°C	11.6°C
May 11	16.4°C	11.6°C
May 12	16.4°C	11.6°C
May 13	15.9°C	11.6°C
May 14	15.9°C	11.6°C
May 15	14.8°C	11.6°C	14.8°C
May 16		11.6°C	14.4°C
May 17		11.6°C	14.0°C
May 18		11.6°C	13.6°C
May 19		11.6°C	13.2°C
May 20		11.6°C	12.8°C
May 21		11.6°C	12.4°C
May 22		11.6°C	12.0°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	11°C	17°C	22°C
February	12°C	17°C	22°C
March	10°C	16°C	21°C
April	8°C	12°C	16°C
May	7°C	11°C	15°C
June	5°C	10°C	14°C
July	4°C	8°C	11°C
August	5°C	9°C	12°C
September	5°C	10°C	14°C
October	6°C	13°C	19°C
November	6°C	12°C	18°C
December	9°C	14°C	19°C

Lake Kohangapiripiri: Weather Forecast

May 15

10°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 16 km/h

May 16

10°C / 12°C

light drizzle

rain: 2% | wind: 15 km/h

May 17

7°C / 12°C

light drizzle

rain: 4% | wind: 17 km/h

May 18

6°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 19

7°C / 14°C

partly cloudy

rain: 3% | wind: 23 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Kohangapiripiri, in the Wellington Region within East Harbour Regional Park, is a small coastal lake separated from Palliser Bay by a narrow gravel barrier. It is shallow and influenced by both freshwater inflows and occasional sea spray, which affects its water temperature and clarity. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 8–12°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 12–16°C as air temperatures rise. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow areas may reach about 17–21°C on warm, settled days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 12 and 16°C. Strong winds, common in this exposed coastal setting, can quickly mix the shallow water.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is not recommended at Lake Kohangapiripiri. Although summer temperatures may feel mild enough for a brief swim, the lake is valued primarily as a wildlife sanctuary and wetland habitat. Water quality can vary, and the soft, muddy lakebed makes access difficult. The area is better suited to walking, birdwatching and enjoying the coastal landscape rather than entering the water. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the ecological importance of the lake and avoid activities that may disturb its natural environment.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Kohangapiripiri?

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

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Kohangapiripiri at Wangi Wangi typically range from 9°C to 22°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Kohangapiripiri (Wellington Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Kohangapiripiri, but it’s a small freshwater lake and the water is often cool even in summer, so check recent temperature readings and any water-quality advisories before you jump in. There are limited facilities and no lifeguards, so take usual precautions: swim with a buddy, be mindful of slippery banks and submerged hazards, and consider a wetsuit if you’re sensitive to cold.