9 January 2008

Lake Tutira contaminated – swimming warning

Hawke’s Bay’s District Health Board Medical Officer of Health, Dr Caroline McElnay, today issued a warning to the public that, due to contamination, they should not swim in Lake Tutira.

Monitoring by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has identified high levels of E.coli in water samples taken on 7.1.08. The levels significantly exceed the maximum levels recommended in the Recreational Water Guidelines and indicate that, at the time of sampling, excessive amounts of faecal matter, either animal or human in the water.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will take further samples and the Hastings District Council will undertake an assessment of the lake and put up warning signs.

All water should be checked before swimming to see that the water is clear- generally a sign that it is free from contamination. Dr McElnay says “A quick test is can you see your feet when knee deep in the water, alternatively take the kids to the local swimming pool to cool off instead.”

People can phone the Safe Swimming Line - (06) 878 1368 - or check the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council website www.hbrc.govt.nz. for the latest water quality information.

ENDS

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