Avoid swimming in Kāpiti waterways for the next 48 hours

With the unsettled weather over the past week, the Kāpiti Coast District Council is advising people to avoid swimming in our beaches, rivers and streams for the next 48 hours.

Environmental Standards Manager Jacquie Muir says tests show that levels of bacteria are higher across the district due to the recent rain, and flushing of waterways after the long dry spell we’ve had, so it’s important that people follow advice to avoid getting sick.

“We know this is frustrating as it’s pretty warm out there but there are plenty of other great places to take a dip in Kāpiti. The Waikanae Pool, revamped Ōtaki Pool and splashpad and Coastlands Aquatic Centre are all open for business.”

“We also recently had a few people raise concerns about discoloured water in the Wharemauku Stream, and tests show that the levels of bacteria are higher than normal, which is also likely due to lower water levels and the long, hot summer we’re having.

“As a general rule of thumb, we don’t recommend swimming in streams or stream or river mouths (where streams and rivers come out at the beach), especially during hot summer months. Bacteria levels in our streams and rivers are constantly changing and at times they can be high enough to cause illness if you come in contact with them.”

Dog owners are also reminded keep their pets on-leash near Kāpiti streams and rivers, because during summer there could be pockets of toxic algae in many areas due to the hot dry weather. Test results from popular river, lagoon and beach locations are available on the Council’s website.

© Scoop Media