Lake Poteriteri – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Poteriteri 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 Poteriteri today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Poteriteri: 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 Poteriteri 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 Poteriteri will be 10.4°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 | 14.9°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 7 | 14.9°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 8 | 15.1°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 9 | 15.1°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 10 | 13.5°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 11 | 13.5°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 12 | 13.3°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 13 | 13.3°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 14 | 12.8°C | 10.1°C | 12.8°C |
| May 15 | 10.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 16 | 10.1°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 17 | 10.1°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 18 | 10.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| May 19 | 10.1°C | 11.1°C | |
| May 20 | 10.1°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 21 | 10.1°C | 10.4°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 | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| February | 11°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| March | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| May | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| July | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| August | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| September | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| November | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
Lake Poteriteri: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Lake Poteriteri, in the Southland Region on the edge of Fiordland National Park, is a remote and scenic lake surrounded by native forest and rugged hills. Fed by rainfall and mountain streams, its water temperature reflects the cool southern climate and high rainfall of the area. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 6–9°C. During spring, continued snowmelt and rain keep the lake cool, typically between 8 and 12°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may warm to approximately 13–17°C on calm, sunny days, while deeper water remains colder. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 8 and 13°C. Sudden weather changes can influence surface conditions.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Lake Poteriteri, but it is not commonly used for this purpose due to its remote location and cool water. Even in mid-summer, temperatures remain in the mid to high teens at best, so the water can feel brisk. The most manageable time for a short swim is during settled summer weather with light winds. Swimmers should choose sheltered shoreline spots and enter gradually to reduce the risk of cold shock. For most visitors, the lake is valued more for its wilderness setting than for recreational swimming.