Lake Moawhango – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Moawhango in Manawatū–Whanganui. 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 Moawhango today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Moawhango: 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 Moawhango 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 Moawhango will be 9.1°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 | 12.7°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 7 | 14.1°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 8 | 14.5°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 9 | 14.6°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 10 | 14.6°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 11 | 14.6°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 12 | 13.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 13 | 12.9°C | 8.6°C | |
| May 14 | 12.6°C | 8.6°C | 12.6°C |
| May 15 | 8.6°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 16 | 8.6°C | 11.6°C | |
| May 17 | 8.6°C | 11.1°C | |
| May 18 | 8.6°C | 10.6°C | |
| May 19 | 8.6°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 20 | 8.6°C | 9.6°C | |
| May 21 | 8.6°C | 9.1°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 | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| February | 8°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| March | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| April | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| May | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| July | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| August | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| September | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| October | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| November | 7°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| December | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
Lake Moawhango: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Lake Moawhango, in the Manawatū–Whanganui region on the central plateau, is a high-country hydro lake set among open tussock and rolling hills. Its elevation and exposure influence water temperatures throughout the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 5–9°C, and frosts are common around the shoreline. During spring, snowmelt and cool winds keep the lake brisk, typically between 7 and 12°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered near-shore areas may warm to approximately 12–17°C on calm, sunny days, while deeper water remains noticeably colder. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 8 and 13°C. Strong winds can mix the surface and affect comfort levels.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Lake Moawhango, but it is not widely used for this purpose. Even in mid-summer, water temperatures are moderate at best, and the lake can feel cold due to its altitude and exposure. The most suitable time for a brief swim is during settled summer weather when temperatures reach the mid to high teens and winds are light. Swimmers should choose sheltered shoreline spots and enter gradually to reduce the risk of cold shock. Checking weather conditions beforehand helps ensure a safer and more comfortable experience.