Lake Mackenzie – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Mackenzie 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 Mackenzie today is 10°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Mackenzie: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ Lake water below 10°C is extremely cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even during warm weather, deep lakes retain cold water, making entry uncomfortable and limiting time in the water. Swimming at this temperature is usually limited to quick dips or cold-water enthusiasts. Cool air temperatures or cloudy conditions can make lake swimming particularly harsh.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Mackenzie 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 Mackenzie will be 6.9°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 | 10.6°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 7 | 10.6°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 8 | 10.7°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 9 | 10.7°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 10 | 10.7°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 11 | 10.7°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 12 | 10.5°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 13 | 10.5°C | 6.4°C | |
| May 14 | 10.0°C | 6.4°C | 10.0°C |
| May 15 | 6.4°C | 9.6°C | |
| May 16 | 6.4°C | 9.1°C | |
| May 17 | 6.4°C | 8.7°C | |
| May 18 | 6.4°C | 8.2°C | |
| May 19 | 6.4°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 20 | 6.4°C | 7.3°C | |
| May 21 | 6.4°C | 6.9°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 | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| February | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| March | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| May | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| June | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| July | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| August | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| September | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| October | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
Lake Mackenzie: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
May 20
Location & Local Information
Lake Mackenzie, located along the Routeburn Track in Fiordland and administered within the Southland Region, is a small alpine lake surrounded by steep forested slopes and mountain peaks. Due to its elevation and snow-fed catchment, water temperatures remain cold throughout the year. In winter, surface temperatures are typically around 3–6°C, with ice sometimes forming along the edges during severe frosts. During spring, melting snow keeps the lake very cool, generally between 4 and 8°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may warm to approximately 8–12°C on calm, sunny days, although the water remains distinctly cold. By autumn, temperatures usually fall back to around 5–9°C.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed, but it is uncommon due to the consistently low water temperatures and remote alpine conditions. Even in mid-summer, the lake can feel extremely cold, and there is a risk of cold shock if entering too quickly. Those who choose to swim typically do so briefly and with caution. Weather in this area can change rapidly, bringing wind and rain that further lower comfort levels. For most visitors, Lake Mackenzie is appreciated more for its scenery than for swimming, and anyone considering entering the water should take care and assess conditions carefully.