Lake Puketirini – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Puketirini in Waikato 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

14.5°C

Today

14.3°C

Yesterday

13.7°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Puketirini today is 15°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Puketirini: 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

While water temperatures in Lake Puketirini declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Puketirini will be 11.5°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
Jul 2	13.8°C	11.1°C
Jul 3	13.8°C	11.1°C
Jul 4	13.7°C	11.1°C
Jul 5	13.7°C	11.1°C
Jul 6	13.5°C	11.1°C
Jul 7	13.5°C	11.1°C
Jul 8	14.1°C	11.1°C
Jul 9	14.3°C	11.1°C
Jul 10	14.5°C	11.1°C	14.5°C
Jul 11		11.1°C	14.1°C
Jul 12		11.1°C	13.7°C
Jul 13		11.1°C	13.2°C
Jul 14		11.1°C	12.8°C
Jul 15		11.1°C	12.4°C
Jul 16		11.1°C	12.0°C
Jul 17		11.1°C	11.5°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	18°C	22°C	25°C
February	18°C	21°C	24°C
March	17°C	21°C	25°C
April	15°C	19°C	22°C
May	12°C	16°C	20°C
June	9°C	14°C	18°C
July	8°C	11°C	14°C
August	9°C	12°C	15°C
September	10°C	13°C	16°C
October	12°C	15°C	18°C
November	15°C	18°C	20°C
December	16°C	20°C	24°C

Lake Puketirini: Weather Forecast

July 10

4°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 6% | wind: 16 km/h

July 11

5°C / 11°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 12 km/h

July 12

6°C / 12°C

mainly clear

rain: 6% | wind: 13 km/h

July 13

10°C / 14°C

moderate drizzle

rain: 61% | wind: 23 km/h

July 14

9°C / 13°C

moderate drizzle

rain: 72% | wind: 22 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Puketirini, in the Waikato Region, is a small and relatively shallow inland lake surrounded by farmland and open countryside. Because of its limited depth, water temperatures respond quickly to seasonal air changes. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 10–14°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 14–18°C as air temperatures rise. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow near-shore areas can reach about 20–25°C on hot, settled days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 15 and 19°C. Wind and rainfall can cause short-term variations in surface temperature and clarity, especially in exposed sections.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming may be possible at Lake Puketirini, but it is not widely developed as a formal swimming destination. While summer water temperatures above 20°C can feel comfortable, water quality can vary depending on nutrient levels, runoff and seasonal conditions. Swimmers should check local access arrangements and current water quality information before entering the lake. Choosing calm days and shallow, accessible areas helps improve safety. For many visitors, the lake is appreciated more for its quiet rural setting and recreational use around the shoreline than for organised swimming facilities.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Puketirini?

The water temperature in Lake Puketirini today is 15°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Puketirini at Wangi Wangi typically range from 16°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Puketirini (Waikato Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Puketirini, particularly in the warmer months, but water temperatures can be cool for much of the year and conditions vary. Always check local signage and Waikato Regional Council water‑quality updates (and any iwi advisories), be aware there may be no lifeguards, and take standard lake‑safety precautions.