Lake Manapouri – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Manapouri 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 Manapouri today is 8°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Manapouri: 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 Manapouri 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 Manapouri will be 9.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19 | 13.2°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 20 | 13.3°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 21 | 13.3°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.0°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 23 | 13.1°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 24 | 13.1°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 25 | 7.7°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 7.7°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 7.7°C | 10.1°C | 7.7°C |
| Aug 28 | 10.1°C | 8.0°C | |
| Aug 29 | 10.1°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 30 | 10.1°C | 8.6°C | |
| Aug 31 | 10.1°C | 8.9°C | |
| Sep 1 | 10.1°C | 9.2°C | |
| Sep 2 | 10.1°C | 9.5°C | |
| Sep 3 | 10.1°C | 9.8°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 |
Location & Local Information
Lake Manapouri lies on the edge of Fiordland in the Southland Region, surrounded by native forest and mountains. Its water temperature is shaped by altitude, rainfall, and cold inflows from the surrounding catchments. In summer, surface temperatures usually reach about 14–18 °C, occasionally feeling slightly warmer in sheltered bays during settled weather. Spring and autumn are cooler, with temperatures typically around 10–14 °C. In winter, the lake becomes very cold, often dropping to roughly 6–9 °C, reflecting low air temperatures and limited solar warming.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Lake Manapouri is allowed and does take place, mainly during the warmer summer months. The lake’s clear, calm water and accessible shoreline areas make it suitable for swimming on fine days, especially in sheltered spots protected from wind. Even in mid-summer, the water remains cool, so most swimming is short and refreshing rather than prolonged. Outside summer, cold temperatures make swimming uncomfortable for most people. Weather conditions can also change quickly in this area, influencing comfort and safety. Overall, Lake Manapouri offers scenic and refreshing summer swimming for those comfortable with cool water, while for much of the year it is better enjoyed for boating, walking, and its dramatic natural surroundings rather than regular time spent in the lake.