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

15.9°C

Today

16.0°C

Yesterday

16.3°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Matahina today is 16°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Matahina: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A lake temperature of 15 to 20°C is considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm days with light winds, this range allows for relaxed swimming, especially in shallow or sheltered areas. Comfort depends strongly on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler or overcast weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is common during spring and early summer.

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 13.5°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	15.7°C	13.2°C
May 7	15.7°C	13.2°C
May 8	16.3°C	13.2°C
May 9	16.3°C	13.2°C
May 10	16.5°C	13.2°C
May 11	16.5°C	13.2°C
May 12	16.4°C	13.2°C
May 13	16.0°C	13.2°C
May 14	15.9°C	13.2°C	15.9°C
May 15		13.2°C	15.6°C
May 16		13.2°C	15.2°C
May 17		13.2°C	14.9°C
May 18		13.2°C	14.6°C
May 19		13.2°C	14.2°C
May 20		13.2°C	13.9°C
May 21		13.2°C	13.5°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

May 15

6°C / 16°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

May 16

6°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 17

6°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 15 km/h

May 18

3°C / 17°C

overcast

rain: 8% | wind: 12 km/h

May 19

-1°C / 16°C

overcast

snow: 8% | wind: 6 km/h

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.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Matahina?

The water temperature in Lake Matahina today is 16°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Matahina at Wangi Wangi typically range from 14°C to 24°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Matahina (Bay of Plenty Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Matahina, especially on warm, calm summer days, but bear in mind it’s a hydro reservoir so the water is often cold and levels can change quickly. Always check Bay of Plenty Regional Council or local signage for water quality and closures, keep well away from the dam, spillways and intakes, and consider wearing a lifejacket or staying close to shore because of submerged hazards and sudden releases.