Lake Wakatipu – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Wakatipu 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
The water temperature in Lake Wakatipu today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Wakatipu: 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 Wakatipu 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 Wakatipu will be 8.3°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 | 12.5°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 7 | 12.5°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 8 | 14.0°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 9 | 14.0°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 10 | 13.9°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 11 | 13.9°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 12 | 13.7°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 13 | 12.3°C | 7.8°C | |
| May 14 | 11.9°C | 7.8°C | 11.9°C |
| May 15 | 7.8°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 16 | 7.8°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 17 | 7.8°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 18 | 7.8°C | 9.9°C | |
| May 19 | 7.8°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 20 | 7.8°C | 8.8°C | |
| May 21 | 7.8°C | 8.3°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 | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| February | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| March | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| May | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| June | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| July | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| August | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| September | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| October | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
Lake Wakatipu: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Queenstown
Lake Wakatipu: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
May 20
Location & Local Information
Lake Wakatipu, in the Otago Region, is a long, deep alpine lake surrounded by the Southern Alps and well known for its clear, cold water. Because it is fed by mountain rivers and snowmelt, water temperatures remain low for much of the year. In winter, surface temperatures are typically around 6–9°C. During spring, the lake slowly warms to approximately 8–12°C, though inflows from melting snow can keep it cool. In summer, especially in January and February, near-shore areas may reach about 14–18°C on warm, calm days, while deeper water remains colder. By autumn, temperatures usually fall back to between 9 and 14°C as air temperatures decline.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at many accessible shoreline spots around Lake Wakatipu, including beaches near Queenstown and smaller bays along the lake edge. However, even in summer the water often feels cold due to its alpine origin. The most comfortable conditions are generally during mid to late summer when temperatures approach the mid to high teens and winds are light. Swimmers should take care, as sudden weather changes can create choppy conditions and cold water can increase the risk of shock. Choosing sheltered areas and entering the water gradually helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.