Lake Roxburgh – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Roxburgh in Otago 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

13.2°C

Today

13.5°C

Yesterday

13.8°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Roxburgh today is 13°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Roxburgh: 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 Roxburgh 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 Roxburgh will be 10.8°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
May 6	13.6°C	10.4°C
May 7	13.6°C	10.4°C
May 8	13.8°C	10.4°C
May 9	13.8°C	10.4°C
May 10	13.7°C	10.4°C
May 11	13.7°C	10.4°C
May 12	13.5°C	10.4°C
May 13	13.5°C	10.4°C
May 14	13.2°C	10.4°C	13.2°C
May 15		10.4°C	12.9°C
May 16		10.4°C	12.5°C
May 17		10.4°C	12.2°C
May 18		10.4°C	11.8°C
May 19		10.4°C	11.5°C
May 20		10.4°C	11.1°C
May 21		10.4°C	10.8°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	13°C	17°C	21°C
February	13°C	17°C	20°C
March	12°C	16°C	19°C
April	10°C	13°C	16°C
May	7°C	10°C	13°C
June	5°C	8°C	11°C
July	3°C	7°C	10°C
August	4°C	7°C	10°C
September	6°C	9°C	12°C
October	8°C	11°C	13°C
November	9°C	13°C	17°C
December	12°C	16°C	20°C

Lake Roxburgh: Weather Forecast

May 15

2°C / 10°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 16

3°C / 11°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 12 km/h

May 17

1°C / 12°C

mainly clear

rain: 0% | wind: 10 km/h

May 18

3°C / 12°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

May 19

4°C / 11°C

overcast

rain: 8% | wind: 16 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Roxburgh is a long, narrow hydro lake formed by the Roxburgh Dam on the Clutha River in Central Otago. Surrounded by dry hills and schist landscapes, it experiences warm summers and cool winters typical of inland Otago. During summer, from December to February, surface water temperatures usually range between 16°C and 21°C, with sheltered bays occasionally feeling slightly warmer on calm, sunny days. In spring and autumn, temperatures commonly sit between 10°C and 15°C. Over winter, the lake cools significantly, often dropping to around 6°C to 9°C, reflecting colder air temperatures and reduced solar heating.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and the lake is used for boating, fishing and other water-based recreation. However, as a hydro-electric reservoir, water levels can vary and there may be currents in certain sections influenced by dam operations and river flow. In mid-summer, when temperatures approach or exceed 18°C, conditions can be comfortable for a swim, particularly in sheltered areas away from boat traffic. Outside the main summer season, the cooler water makes swimming more suitable for brief immersion rather than extended periods. Visitors are generally advised to choose calm days and designated access points to ensure safer conditions.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Roxburgh?

The water temperature in Lake Roxburgh today is 13°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Roxburgh at Wangi Wangi typically range from 12°C to 21°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Roxburgh (Otago Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Lake Roxburgh in the Otago region, particularly in summer when surface temperatures are at their warmest. However, it’s a hydro reservoir with cold, changeable water, possible strong currents and varying levels, so always check local signage and water-quality advisories and take sensible safety precautions.