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 14°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Matheson: 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 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 9.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 6 | 13.7°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 7 | 13.7°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 8 | 15.5°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 9 | 15.5°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 10 | 15.4°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 11 | 15.4°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 12 | 15.4°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 13 | 13.8°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 14 | 13.5°C | 9.3°C | 13.5°C |
| May 15 | 9.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| May 16 | 9.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 17 | 9.3°C | 11.9°C | |
| May 18 | 9.3°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 19 | 9.3°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 20 | 9.3°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 21 | 9.3°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 | 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
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
May 20
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.