Saltwater Lagoon – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Saltwater 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

13.8°C

Today

14.2°C

Yesterday

15.7°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Saltwater Lagoon today is 14°C.

Water Temperature in Saltwater 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 Saltwater 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 Saltwater Lagoon will be 11.8°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	13.9°C	11.5°C
May 7	13.9°C	11.5°C
May 8	15.7°C	11.5°C
May 9	15.7°C	11.5°C
May 10	15.8°C	11.5°C
May 11	15.8°C	11.5°C
May 12	15.8°C	11.5°C
May 13	14.2°C	11.5°C
May 14	13.8°C	11.5°C	13.8°C
May 15		11.5°C	13.5°C
May 16		11.5°C	13.2°C
May 17		11.5°C	12.9°C
May 18		11.5°C	12.7°C
May 19		11.5°C	12.4°C
May 20		11.5°C	12.1°C
May 21		11.5°C	11.8°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	13°C	18°C	22°C
February	13°C	18°C	23°C
March	10°C	16°C	22°C
April	9°C	14°C	19°C
May	7°C	12°C	16°C
June	4°C	8°C	12°C
July	4°C	8°C	11°C
August	6°C	9°C	12°C
September	7°C	11°C	14°C
October	7°C	12°C	17°C
November	7°C	13°C	19°C
December	9°C	16°C	23°C

Saltwater Lagoon: Weather Forecast

May 15

7°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 6 km/h

May 16

7°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 5 km/h

May 17

6°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 6 km/h

May 18

2°C / 14°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 7 km/h

May 19

5°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 10% | wind: 6 km/h

May 20

4°C / 13°C

overcast

rain: 55% | wind: 6 km/h

Location & Local Information

Saltwater Lagoon, in the West Coast Region south of Hokitika, is a shallow coastal lagoon surrounded by wetlands and native forest. As a brackish water body influenced by both freshwater inflows and occasional connection to the Tasman Sea, its temperature responds quickly to seasonal air conditions. In winter, surface temperatures are generally around 8–12°C. During spring, the lagoon gradually warms to approximately 12–16°C, although frequent rainfall can influence short-term changes. In summer, particularly in January and February, shallow areas may reach about 17–22°C on warm, calm days. By autumn, temperatures usually ease back to between 12 and 16°C. Wind and runoff can affect clarity and surface conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed, but Saltwater Lagoon is not widely used as a swimming destination. The most comfortable period is typically mid to late summer when water temperatures approach the high teens or low twenties and winds are light. However, water clarity may vary due to tannins from surrounding wetlands and sediment stirred by wind. There may also be tidal influence at times. Swimmers should choose shallow, sheltered spots and avoid entering the lagoon after heavy rain. Checking local conditions beforehand helps ensure a safer and more pleasant experience.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Saltwater Lagoon?

The water temperature in Saltwater Lagoon today is 14°C.

What is the water temperature in Saltwater Lagoon during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Saltwater Lagoon at Wangi Wangi typically range from 9°C to 23°C.

Is it possible to swim in Saltwater Lagoon (West Coast Region)?

Yes — you can swim in Saltwater Lagoon on the West Coast, but the water is usually cool even in summer and conditions (tides, currents and water quality after heavy rain) can change quickly. Check local signage or with the Department of Conservation/West Coast Regional Council before you go, swim with a buddy and consider a wetsuit, as there are generally no lifeguards.