Recreational water
Nelson Marlborough Health's Public Health Service issues warnings when beaches and rivers are contaminated by faecal micro-organisms and toxic algae.
From November to March, councils test water at popular swimming spots. If the test results exceed the maximum level allowed, they notify the Public Health Service.
If recreational water is contaminated by human or animal faeces, the presence of disease-causing micro-organisms (bacteria, viruses and protozoa) is likely. Freshwater (rivers) may also contain harmful toxic algae (cyanobacteria).
Useful references
- search the Land Air Water Aotearoa website for information about the quality of swimming spots in your region
- Microbiological Water Quality Guidelines for Marine and Freshwater Recreational Areas [Ministry for the Environment website]
- New Zealand Guidelines for Cyanobacteria in Recreational Fresh Waters: Interim guidelines [Ministry for the Environment website]
Page last updated: 28/02/2022