Maitai Dam – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Maitai Dam in Nelson 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 Maitai Dam today is 17°C.
Water Temperature in Maitai Dam: 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 Maitai Dam have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Maitai Dam will be 16.1°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 22 | 16.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 16.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 24 | 16.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 25 | 16.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 26 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 27 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 28 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 29 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Mar 30 | 16.9°C | 16.0°C | 16.9°C |
| Mar 31 | 16.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| Apr 1 | 16.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| Apr 2 | 16.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| Apr 3 | 16.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| Apr 4 | 16.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| Apr 5 | 16.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| Apr 6 | 16.0°C | 16.1°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 | 11°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| February | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| March | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| April | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| May | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| July | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| August | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| September | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| December | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
Maitai Dam: Weather Forecast
March 30
March 31
April 1
April 2
April 3
April 4
Location & Local Information
Maitai Dam, in the Nelson Region above Nelson city, forms a small reservoir on the Maitai River and is surrounded by native bush and walking tracks. Its inland location and moderate depth influence water temperatures through the year. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 8–12°C. During spring, the reservoir gradually warms to approximately 12–16°C as air temperatures rise. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered near-shore areas can reach about 17–22°C on warm, settled days, while deeper sections remain slightly cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 12 and 16°C. Rainfall and river inflows can cause short-term changes in temperature and clarity.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Maitai Dam, and it is a popular freshwater swimming spot for locals during the warmer months. The most comfortable conditions are typically in mid to late summer when water temperatures approach or exceed 18°C and winds are light. However, swimmers should be mindful of variable depths and occasional changes in water quality after heavy rain. Using recognised access areas and checking local water quality information before entering the water helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable swimming experience close to Nelson city.