Lake Waikare – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Waikare in Waikato 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

15.6°C

Today

16.3°C

Yesterday

18.2°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Lake Waikare today is 16°C.

Water Temperature in Lake Waikare: 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 Waikare 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 Waikare will be 16.0°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	15.5°C	16.0°C
May 7	15.5°C	16.0°C
May 8	18.2°C	16.0°C
May 9	18.2°C	16.0°C
May 10	16.8°C	16.0°C
May 11	16.8°C	16.0°C
May 12	16.5°C	16.0°C
May 13	16.3°C	16.0°C
May 14	15.6°C	16.0°C	15.6°C
May 15		16.0°C	15.7°C
May 16		16.0°C	15.7°C
May 17		16.0°C	15.8°C
May 18		16.0°C	15.8°C
May 19		16.0°C	15.9°C
May 20		16.0°C	15.9°C
May 21		16.0°C	16.0°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	18°C	22°C	25°C
February	18°C	21°C	24°C
March	17°C	21°C	25°C
April	15°C	19°C	22°C
May	12°C	16°C	20°C
June	9°C	14°C	18°C
July	8°C	11°C	14°C
August	9°C	12°C	15°C
September	10°C	13°C	16°C
October	12°C	15°C	18°C
November	15°C	18°C	20°C
December	16°C	20°C	24°C

Lake Waikare: Weather Forecast

May 15

7°C / 15°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

May 16

6°C / 15°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 13 km/h

May 17

7°C / 15°C

mainly clear

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 18

8°C / 15°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 11 km/h

May 19

7°C / 16°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 10 km/h

Location & Local Information

Lake Waikare, in the Waikato Region east of Huntly, is a large, shallow lake set within low-lying farmland and wetlands. Because of its shallow depth and broad surface area, water temperatures respond quickly to seasonal air changes. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 9–13°C. During spring, the lake gradually warms to approximately 13–17°C as conditions become milder. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow areas can reach about 19–24°C on hot, settled days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 14 and 18°C. Wind mixing can influence surface conditions, and rainfall may cause short-term changes in temperature and clarity.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is technically allowed at Lake Waikare, but it is not widely regarded as a popular swimming destination. Water quality can vary due to nutrient levels, sediment and inflows from surrounding farmland, especially during prolonged warm periods. While summer temperatures may feel comfortable when above 19°C, swimmers should be cautious about water clarity and potential algal growth. It is advisable to check regional water quality updates before entering the lake. For most visitors, Lake Waikare is better known for birdlife and fishing rather than recreational swimming.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Waikare?

The water temperature in Lake Waikare today is 16°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Lake Waikare at Wangi Wangi typically range from 16°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Lake Waikare (Waikato Region)?

Yes — people do swim in Lake Waikare, but conditions can be variable and swimming is only advisable when there are no water‑quality warnings (cyanobacteria/blue‑green algae or high E. coli), especially following heavy rain; there are no lifeguards and submerged hazards can occur. Check Waikato Regional Council or local council updates and on‑site warning signs before entering, avoid swallowing the water, keep children and pets supervised, and don’t swim if you see scums, discoloured water or official advisories.