Lake Rotorangi – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Rotorangi 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 Rotorangi today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Rotorangi: 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 Rotorangi 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 Rotorangi will be 10.7°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 | 14.0°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 3 | 13.9°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 4 | 13.8°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 5 | 13.7°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 6 | 13.6°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 7 | 14.3°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 8 | 14.4°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 9 | 15.0°C | 10.2°C | |
| Jul 10 | 14.3°C | 10.2°C | 14.3°C |
| Jul 11 | 10.2°C | 13.8°C | |
| Jul 12 | 10.2°C | 13.3°C | |
| Jul 13 | 10.2°C | 12.8°C | |
| Jul 14 | 10.2°C | 12.3°C | |
| Jul 15 | 10.2°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jul 16 | 10.2°C | 11.2°C | |
| Jul 17 | 10.2°C | 10.7°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 Rotorangi: Weather Forecast
July 10
July 11
July 12
July 13
July 14
July 15
Location & Local Information
Lake Rotorangi, in the Taranaki Region east of Eltham, is a long hydro lake formed on the Pātea River and surrounded by rolling hill country. Its water temperature reflects the mild western North Island climate and moderate depth. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 9–13°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 13–17°C as air temperatures increase. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered near-shore areas can reach about 18–22°C on warm, settled days, while deeper sections remain slightly cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 13 and 17°C. Wind and changes in river inflow can cause short-term variations in surface conditions.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at suitable access points around Lake Rotorangi, and it can be enjoyable during the warmer months when water temperatures approach or exceed 18°C. The most comfortable conditions are typically in mid to late summer on calm days with light winds. However, swimmers should be mindful of variable depths, submerged features and boat activity in popular areas. It is advisable to use recognised access areas and check local water quality information before entering the lake. Choosing settled weather conditions helps ensure a safer and more pleasant freshwater swimming experience.