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

18.4°C

Today

16.6°C

Yesterday

18.3°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Tarawera today is 18°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Tarawera: 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

While water temperatures in Lake Tarawera 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 Tarawera will be 21.3°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
Mar 21	18.4°C	19.9°C
Mar 22	18.3°C	19.9°C
Mar 23	18.3°C	19.9°C
Mar 24	18.3°C	19.9°C
Mar 25	18.2°C	19.9°C
Mar 26	16.3°C	19.9°C
Mar 27	16.6°C	19.9°C
Mar 28	16.6°C	19.9°C
Mar 30	18.4°C	19.9°C	18.4°C
Mar 31		19.9°C	18.8°C
Apr 1		19.9°C	19.2°C
Apr 2		19.9°C	19.6°C
Apr 3		19.9°C	20.1°C
Apr 4		19.9°C	20.5°C
Apr 5		19.9°C	20.9°C
Apr 6		19.9°C	21.3°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 Australia.

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

March 30

12°C / 19°C

overcast

rain: 73% | wind: 27 km/h

March 31

12°C / 18°C

slight rain showers

rain: 23% | wind: 19 km/h

April 1

12°C / 17°C

overcast

rain: 13% | wind: 14 km/h

April 2

12°C / 19°C

fog

rain: 0% | wind: 8 km/h

April 3

11°C / 18°C

fog

rain: 3% | wind: 12 km/h

April 4

12°C / 17°C

overcast

rain: 5% | wind: 16 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 18°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.