Lake Monowai – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Monowai in Southland 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 Monowai today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Monowai: 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 Monowai have remained fairly stable over the past 30 days, though a cooler trend has emerged in the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Monowai will be 12.2°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 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 7 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 8 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 9 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 10 | 12.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 11 | 12.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 12 | 12.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 13 | 13.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 14 | 13.3°C | 12.0°C | 13.3°C |
| May 15 | 12.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| May 16 | 12.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| May 17 | 12.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 18 | 12.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 19 | 12.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 20 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 21 | 12.0°C | 12.2°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 | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| February | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| March | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| April | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| June | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| July | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| August | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| September | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
Lake Monowai: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Lake Monowai, in the Southland Region west of Tuatapere, is a long, narrow lake surrounded by forested hills and part of a hydro-electric scheme. Fed by rainfall and upland streams, its water temperature reflects the cool southern climate. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 6–9°C. During spring, ongoing rain and snowmelt from nearby ranges keep the lake brisk, typically between 8 and 12°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may warm to approximately 13–18°C on calm, sunny days, while deeper water remains colder. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 9 and 14°C. Weather changes can quickly influence surface conditions.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Lake Monowai, though it is more commonly visited for boating and fishing. The most comfortable time for a swim is usually in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach the high teens and winds are light. Even then, the water can feel cool compared with northern lakes. Swimmers should choose sheltered shoreline areas and avoid entering the lake during strong winds, when conditions can become choppy. Checking weather conditions beforehand helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable freshwater experience.