Lake Pukaki – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Pukaki 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 Pukaki today is 5°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Pukaki: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ Lake water below 10°C is extremely cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even during warm weather, deep lakes retain cold water, making entry uncomfortable and limiting time in the water. Swimming at this temperature is usually limited to quick dips or cold-water enthusiasts. Cool air temperatures or cloudy conditions can make lake swimming particularly harsh.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Pukaki 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 Pukaki will be 6.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19 | 11.7°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 20 | 11.8°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 21 | 11.7°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 22 | 11.2°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 23 | 11.4°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 24 | 11.4°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 25 | 5.0°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 26 | 5.0°C | 6.6°C | |
| Aug 27 | 5.0°C | 6.6°C | 5.0°C |
| Aug 28 | 6.6°C | 5.2°C | |
| Aug 29 | 6.6°C | 5.4°C | |
| Aug 30 | 6.6°C | 5.6°C | |
| Aug 31 | 6.6°C | 5.8°C | |
| Sep 1 | 6.6°C | 6.0°C | |
| Sep 2 | 6.6°C | 6.2°C | |
| Sep 3 | 6.6°C | 6.4°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 | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| February | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| March | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| July | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| August | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| September | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| October | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| November | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| December | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
Lake Pukaki: Weather Forecast
August 28
August 29
August 30
August 31
September 1
Location & Local Information
Lake Pukaki, in the Canterbury Region, is a striking alpine lake fed by glacial meltwater from Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. Its vivid turquoise colour comes from fine glacial sediment suspended in the water. Because of its alpine source and depth, water temperatures remain cold for most of the year. In winter, surface temperatures are typically around 5–8°C. During spring, ongoing snowmelt keeps the lake cool, generally between 6 and 10°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas may reach about 10–14°C on warm days, although deeper water remains colder. By autumn, temperatures usually fall back to around 7–11°C.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed along the lake’s shoreline, but conditions are cold even in mid-summer. The most manageable time for a brief swim is during settled summer weather when temperatures reach the low teens. However, the glacial origin of the lake means the water can cause cold shock if entered suddenly. Swimmers should take care, enter gradually and choose calm, sheltered spots away from boat traffic. Strong winds can quickly create choppy conditions on the open water. While Lake Pukaki offers spectacular scenery, swimming here is generally refreshing rather than warm, and caution is recommended.