Lake Ōhau – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Ōhau in Canterbury 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 Ōhau today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Ōhau: 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 Ōhau 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 Ōhau will be 8.4°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 | 11.6°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 7 | 11.6°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 8 | 11.8°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 9 | 11.8°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 10 | 13.0°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 11 | 13.0°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 12 | 12.9°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 13 | 11.6°C | 8.0°C | |
| May 14 | 11.3°C | 8.0°C | 11.3°C |
| May 15 | 8.0°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 16 | 8.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 17 | 8.0°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 18 | 8.0°C | 9.7°C | |
| May 19 | 8.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| May 20 | 8.0°C | 8.8°C | |
| May 21 | 8.0°C | 8.4°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 | 6°C | 11°C | 16°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 Ōhau: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
May 20
Location & Local Information
Lake Ōhau, in the Canterbury high country, is a long alpine lake fed by glacial rivers from the Southern Alps. Its striking blue colour reflects both depth and fine glacial sediment. Because of its mountain origins and elevation, water temperatures remain cool throughout the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 4–8°C. During spring, snowmelt keeps the lake cold, typically between 6 and 10°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may warm to approximately 10–15°C on calm, sunny days, while deeper water remains considerably colder. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 6 and 11°C. Wind can quickly influence surface conditions on this open lake.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed along accessible shoreline areas, including near Lake Ōhau village and camping spots. However, even in mid-summer the water feels cold due to its alpine source. The most manageable time for a brief swim is during settled summer weather when temperatures reach the low to mid teens and winds are light. Swimmers should enter gradually to reduce the risk of cold shock and choose sheltered bays where possible. Strong winds are common in this exposed landscape, so checking weather conditions beforehand is advisable for a safer experience.