Ōkārito Lagoon – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Ōkārito Lagoon in West Coast 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 Ōkārito Lagoon today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Ōkārito Lagoon: 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 Ōkārito Lagoon 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 Ōkārito Lagoon will be 9.8°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 | 13.7°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 7 | 13.7°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 8 | 15.6°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 9 | 15.6°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 10 | 15.6°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 11 | 15.6°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 12 | 15.6°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 13 | 14.1°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 14 | 13.6°C | 9.3°C | 13.6°C |
| May 15 | 9.3°C | 13.1°C | |
| May 16 | 9.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 17 | 9.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 18 | 9.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| May 19 | 9.3°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 20 | 9.3°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 21 | 9.3°C | 9.8°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 | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| February | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| March | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| June | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| July | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| August | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| September | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| October | 2°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
Ōkārito Lagoon: Weather Forecast
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
May 20
Location & Local Information
Ōkārito Lagoon, in the West Coast Region north of Franz Josef, is a large coastal lagoon separated from the Tasman Sea by a sand barrier. As a shallow body of water influenced by both freshwater inflows and tidal exchange, its temperature varies with season and weather conditions. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 9–13°C. During spring, the lagoon gradually warms to approximately 13–17°C. In summer, particularly in January and February, sheltered shallow areas can reach about 18–22°C on calm, sunny days, while areas influenced by tidal movement may feel cooler. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 13 and 17°C. Heavy rainfall and tidal changes can cause short-term fluctuations.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed in parts of Ōkārito Lagoon, but it is not a primary swimming destination. The lagoon is better known for birdlife and kayaking. Water clarity can vary due to tannins and sediment, and tidal currents near the outlet may affect conditions. The most comfortable time for a brief swim is during settled summer weather when temperatures approach the low twenties and winds are light. Swimmers should choose calm, shallow areas and avoid the tidal channel. Checking local conditions beforehand helps ensure a safer experience.