Lake Matahina – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Matahina in Bay of Plenty 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 Matahina today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Matahina: 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 Matahina 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 Matahina will be 12.4°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 | 16.4°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 20 | 16.2°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 21 | 16.1°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 22 | 16.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 23 | 16.1°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 24 | 16.2°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 25 | 11.2°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 26 | 11.2°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 27 | 11.2°C | 12.6°C | 11.2°C |
| Aug 28 | 12.6°C | 11.4°C | |
| Aug 29 | 12.6°C | 11.6°C | |
| Aug 30 | 12.6°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 31 | 12.6°C | 11.9°C | |
| Sep 1 | 12.6°C | 12.1°C | |
| Sep 2 | 12.6°C | 12.3°C | |
| Sep 3 | 12.6°C | 12.4°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 | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| February | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| March | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| April | 12°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| June | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| July | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| August | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| September | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
Lake Matahina: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
Location & Local Information
Lake Matahina, in the Bay of Plenty Region east of Whakatāne, is a hydro lake formed on the Rangitaiki River. Surrounded by steep hills and native bush, it sits in a warm inland climate that influences seasonal water temperatures. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 10–14°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 14–18°C as air temperatures increase. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered near-shore areas can reach about 19–24°C on hot, settled days, while deeper sections remain slightly cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 15 and 19°C. River inflows and wind can cause short-term changes in surface conditions.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at suitable access points around Lake Matahina, and it is enjoyed during the warmer months when water temperatures exceed 19°C. The most comfortable conditions are typically in mid to late summer on calm days with light winds. However, swimmers should be mindful of variable depths, submerged features and occasional boat activity. Water clarity may also change after heavy rainfall due to increased river flow. Checking local water quality information and choosing recognised access areas helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable freshwater swimming experience.