Lake Matheson – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Matheson in West Coast 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 Matheson today is 8°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Matheson: 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 Matheson 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 Matheson will be 9.0°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 | 14.3°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 20 | 14.5°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 21 | 14.3°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 22 | 14.4°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 23 | 14.8°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 24 | 14.8°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 25 | 7.9°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 7.9°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 7.9°C | 9.1°C | 7.9°C |
| Aug 28 | 9.1°C | 8.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 9.1°C | 8.2°C | |
| Aug 30 | 9.1°C | 8.4°C | |
| Aug 31 | 9.1°C | 8.5°C | |
| Sep 1 | 9.1°C | 8.7°C | |
| Sep 2 | 9.1°C | 8.8°C | |
| Sep 3 | 9.1°C | 9.0°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 | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| February | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| March | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| July | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| August | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| September | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| October | 2°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
Lake Matheson: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
Location & Local Information
Lake Matheson, in the West Coast Region near Fox Glacier, is a small, shallow lake well known for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Surrounded by native forest and wetlands, its water temperature reflects the cool, high-rainfall climate of the area. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 7–11°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 11–15°C as air temperatures increase. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may reach about 15–20°C on calm, sunny days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 10 and 15°C. Frequent rainfall and tannin-rich runoff from surrounding vegetation influence both temperature and water colour.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is technically allowed, but it is not common at Lake Matheson. The lake is valued primarily for its scenic reflections and walking track rather than for recreation in the water. Even in summer, the water can feel cool, and the soft, peaty lakebed may be uncomfortable underfoot. Water clarity is limited due to natural tannins, which reduces its appeal for swimming. For these reasons, most visitors choose to enjoy the lake from the shore. Anyone considering entering the water should do so cautiously and be mindful of the lake’s environmental sensitivity.