Lake Tarawera – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Tarawera 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

14.1°C

Today

14.3°C

Yesterday

16.3°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Tarawera today is 14°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Tarawera: 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 Tarawera 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 Tarawera will be 15.3°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	13.8°C	15.5°C
May 7	13.8°C	15.5°C
May 8	16.3°C	15.5°C
May 9	16.3°C	15.5°C
May 10	14.9°C	15.5°C
May 11	14.9°C	15.5°C
May 12	14.7°C	15.5°C
May 13	14.3°C	15.5°C
May 14	14.1°C	15.5°C	14.1°C
May 15		15.5°C	14.3°C
May 16		15.5°C	14.5°C
May 17		15.5°C	14.6°C
May 18		15.5°C	14.8°C
May 19		15.5°C	15.0°C
May 20		15.5°C	15.2°C
May 21		15.5°C	15.3°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 Tarawera: Weather Forecast

May 15

6°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 12 km/h

May 16

6°C / 14°C

partly cloudy

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 17

7°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 14 km/h

May 18

6°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 13 km/h

May 19

3°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 2% | wind: 9 km/h

May 20

4°C / 12°C

overcast

rain: 11% | wind: 6 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Tarawera, in the Bay of Plenty Region, is a large, clear lake set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Tarawera. Its depth and volcanic origins influence water temperatures throughout the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 10–14°C, making the water cool but not extreme. 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 water remains cooler. By autumn, temperatures typically ease back to between 14 and 18°C. Wind mixing and rainfall can cause short-term variations.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at several access points around Lake Tarawera, including beaches and sheltered bays, and it is a popular activity during the warmer months. The most comfortable conditions are usually in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach or exceed 20°C and winds are light. However, the lake can become choppy in strong winds, so swimmers should choose calm days and sheltered areas. As with other New Zealand lakes, checking local water quality information before swimming is recommended. When conditions are suitable, Lake Tarawera offers clear freshwater and scenic surroundings for a refreshing swim.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Tarawera?

The water temperature in Lake Tarawera today is 14°C.

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

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

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

Yes — Lake Tarawera is commonly swum in, particularly in summer when surface temperatures often reach the high teens to low twenties Celsius, though it can be quite cool outside the warmer months and some areas have submerged hazards or geothermal seepage. Always use designated access points, check local water‑quality and weather advisories, wear a lifejacket when boating, and remember there are generally no lifeguards on the lake.