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 16°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Rotokare: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A lake temperature of 15 to 20°C is considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm days with light winds, this range allows for relaxed swimming, especially in shallow or sheltered areas. Comfort depends strongly on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler or overcast weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is common during spring and early summer.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Rotokare have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Rotokare will be 13.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 8 | 13.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 9 | 13.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 10 | 13.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 11 | 13.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 12 | 14.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 13 | 14.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 14 | 14.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 15 | 14.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| Oct 16 | 15.6°C | 13.0°C | 15.6°C |
| Oct 17 | 13.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| Oct 18 | 13.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| Oct 19 | 13.0°C | 14.9°C | |
| Oct 20 | 13.0°C | 14.7°C | |
| Oct 21 | 13.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| Oct 22 | 13.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| Oct 23 | 13.0°C | 13.9°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
October 17
October 18
October 19
October 20
October 21
October 22
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.