Lake Rotokare – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Rotokare in Taranaki 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 Rotokare today is 15°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Rotokare: 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 Rotokare 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 Rotokare will be 12.4°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 | 14.9°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 8 | 16.6°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 9 | 17.1°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 10 | 17.1°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 11 | 17.2°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 12 | 17.2°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 13 | 15.3°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 14 | 15.2°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 15 | 14.6°C | 12.1°C | 14.6°C |
| May 16 | 12.1°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 17 | 12.1°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 18 | 12.1°C | 13.7°C | |
| May 19 | 12.1°C | 13.4°C | |
| May 20 | 12.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| May 21 | 12.1°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 22 | 12.1°C | 12.4°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 | 19°C | 24°C |
| February | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| March | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| April | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| June | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| July | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| August | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| September | 8°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
Lake Rotokare: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Lake Rotokare, in the Taranaki Region near Eltham, is a small forest-fringed lake protected within a predator-free sanctuary. Surrounded by native bush and walking tracks, its water temperature reflects the mild coastal climate of western New Zealand. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 9–13°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 13–17°C as air temperatures rise. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow near-shore areas may reach about 17–21°C on warm, settled days, while deeper sections remain slightly cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 12 and 16°C. Rainfall and wind can influence short-term changes in surface conditions.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is not permitted at Lake Rotokare. The lake is managed primarily as a conservation sanctuary to protect native wildlife and maintain water quality. Although summer water temperatures may reach levels that feel suitable for swimming, recreational use of the water is restricted to preserve the natural environment. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the walking tracks, birdlife and scenic views around the lake rather than entering the water. These protections help maintain the ecological health of this important sanctuary area.