Kaipara Harbour and Kaiwaka and Otamatea rivers

Residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with the water in the Kaiwaka and Otamatea rivers and the Kaipara Harbour by the Tinopai wharf because of a treated sewage spill.

Following the heavy rain, there’s an increased risk of nasty germs and chemicals in other Northland rivers, lakes, and beaches, even at usually clean spots.

To stay safe:

• avoid swimming in the Kaipara Harbour by Tinopai and these rivers for another 48 hours or until SafeSwim shows it’s safe to go back in the water
  SafeSwim (external link)
• kayakers and sailors also need to be careful around the water and avoid going in or getting wet
• hold off collecting kaimoana after heavy rainfall for 28 days. This is because there’s an increased risk of contamination from stormwater and sewage.

If you feel unwell after contact with contaminated water, call your doctor or Healthline for free on 0800 611 116

Contact details:

hnzmedia@tewhatuora.govt.nz