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 12°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Manapouri: 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 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 10.9°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 7 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 8 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 9 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 10 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 11 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 12 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 13 | 12.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 14 | 13.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 15 | 12.1°C | 12.0°C | 12.1°C |
| May 16 | 12.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| May 17 | 12.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 18 | 12.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| May 19 | 12.0°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 20 | 12.0°C | 11.2°C | |
| May 21 | 12.0°C | 11.1°C | |
| May 22 | 12.0°C | 10.9°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 | 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 Manapouri: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
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.