Lake Rotokākahi – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Rotokākahi in Bay of Plenty 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

9.3°C

Today

9.3°C

Yesterday

13.1°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Rotokākahi today is 9°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Rotokākahi: 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 Rotokākahi 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 Rotokākahi will be 11.8°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	13.5°C	12.1°C
Aug 20	13.4°C	12.1°C
Aug 21	13.1°C	12.1°C
Aug 22	13.0°C	12.1°C
Aug 23	13.1°C	12.1°C
Aug 24	13.2°C	12.1°C
Aug 25	9.3°C	12.1°C
Aug 26	9.3°C	12.1°C
Aug 27	9.3°C	12.1°C	9.3°C
Aug 28		12.1°C	9.7°C
Aug 29		12.1°C	10.0°C
Aug 30		12.1°C	10.4°C
Aug 31		12.1°C	10.7°C
Sep 1		12.1°C	11.1°C
Sep 2		12.1°C	11.4°C
Sep 3		12.1°C	11.8°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	16°C	20°C	24°C
February	16°C	21°C	25°C
March	17°C	21°C	24°C
April	15°C	18°C	21°C
May	13°C	16°C	18°C
June	10°C	13°C	16°C
July	9°C	12°C	14°C
August	9°C	12°C	14°C
September	9°C	13°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 Rotokākahi: Weather Forecast

August 28

11°C / 14°C

moderate drizzle

rain: 84% | wind: 25 km/h

August 29

6°C / 14°C

light drizzle

rain: 84% | wind: 23 km/h

August 30

9°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 10% | wind: 38 km/h

August 31

9°C / 14°C

light drizzle

rain: 5% | wind: 34 km/h

September 1

7°C / 14°C

light drizzle

rain: 6% | wind: 27 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Rotokākahi, also known as the Green Lake, lies in the Bay of Plenty Region near Rotorua and is surrounded by native forest and volcanic terrain. Its water temperature reflects the inland North Island climate and moderate depth. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 10–14°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 14–18°C as air temperatures increase. In summer, particularly in January and February, near-shore areas can reach about 19–23°C on warm, settled days, while deeper sections remain slightly cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 14 and 18°C. Wind and rainfall can cause short-term variations in surface conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is not allowed at Lake Rotokākahi. The lake is considered tapu (sacred) to local iwi, and public access to the water is restricted out of respect for its cultural significance. Although summer water temperatures may appear suitable for swimming, recreational use of the lake is prohibited. Visitors can view the lake from designated lookout points, but entry to the water is not permitted. These restrictions help preserve both the cultural values and the natural environment of this important site.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Rotokākahi?

The water temperature in Lake Rotokākahi today is 9°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Rotokākahi at Wangi Wangi typically range from 15°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Rotokākahi (Bay of Plenty Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Rotokākahi, particularly in summer when surface temperatures are at their warmest, though the lake can still feel cool even on fine days because of its depth and spring-fed nature. Always check local signage, recent water-quality and weather updates, and respect any cultural restrictions or requests from local iwi before entering the water.