Lake Ōmāpere – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Ōmāpere in Northland 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

15.8°C

Today

16.5°C

Yesterday

18.6°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Ōmāpere today is 16°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Ōmāpere: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A lake temperature of 15 to 20°C is considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm days with light winds, this range allows for relaxed swimming, especially in shallow or sheltered areas. Comfort depends strongly on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler or overcast weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is common during spring and early summer.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Lake Ōmāpere 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 Ōmāpere will be 13.4°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 7	16.4°C	13.1°C
May 8	18.2°C	13.1°C
May 9	18.6°C	13.1°C
May 10	18.6°C	13.1°C
May 11	18.7°C	13.1°C
May 12	18.7°C	13.1°C
May 13	16.5°C	13.1°C
May 14	16.5°C	13.1°C
May 15	15.8°C	13.1°C	15.8°C
May 16		13.1°C	15.5°C
May 17		13.1°C	15.1°C
May 18		13.1°C	14.8°C
May 19		13.1°C	14.5°C
May 20		13.1°C	14.1°C
May 21		13.1°C	13.8°C
May 22		13.1°C	13.4°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	14°C	20°C	25°C
February	15°C	20°C	25°C
March	14°C	18°C	21°C
April	11°C	16°C	20°C
May	8°C	13°C	18°C
June	7°C	12°C	16°C
July	4°C	9°C	14°C
August	6°C	10°C	14°C
September	8°C	12°C	16°C
October	10°C	14°C	17°C
November	12°C	16°C	19°C
December	15°C	19°C	23°C

Lake Ōmāpere: Weather Forecast

May 15

10°C / 15°C

light drizzle

rain: 48% | wind: 21 km/h

May 16

9°C / 16°C

light drizzle

rain: 78% | wind: 22 km/h

May 17

9°C / 15°C

light drizzle

rain: 78% | wind: 22 km/h

May 18

10°C / 14°C

moderate drizzle

rain: 86% | wind: 23 km/h

May 19

10°C / 16°C

light drizzle

rain: 74% | wind: 24 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Ōmāpere, in the Northland Region near Kaikohe, is the largest lake in Northland and sits within a warm, subtropical climate. As a relatively shallow lake, its water temperature responds quickly to seasonal air conditions. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 12–16°C, remaining milder than many lakes further south. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 16–20°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow near-shore areas can reach about 21–26°C on hot, settled days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 17 and 21°C. Wind and rainfall can cause short-term variations, especially in exposed sections.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Lake Ōmāpere, but it is not widely promoted as a main swimming destination. While summer temperatures can feel comfortable when above 20°C, water quality may vary due to nutrient levels and occasional algal blooms during prolonged warm periods. Swimmers should use recognised access points and check current water quality information before entering the lake. Choosing calm days and shallow areas helps improve comfort and safety. For many visitors, the lake is valued as a scenic and cultural site rather than primarily for recreational swimming.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Ōmāpere?

The water temperature in Lake Ōmāpere today is 16°C.

What is the water temperature in Lake Ōmāpere during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Ōmāpere at Wangi Wangi typically range from 14°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Ōmāpere (Northland Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Ōmāpere when water quality is good, but the lake can suffer from low clarity and occasional algal blooms that make contact unsafe. Always check current water-quality notices from Northland Regional Council or local signage, and avoid swimming after heavy rain or if you see discoloured water or surface scum.