In the cleanup after flooding

A number of residents in the Riwaka, Motueka and Upper Takaka area, particularly those affected by the floodwaters on or near their properties, have reported issues with wastewater.

As with any issues with wastewater there may be concerns with sanitation that need to be addressed.

Those who with private water supplies particularly those from a private bore should boil the water before drinking or using it to cook food.

For those who rely on gardens that may have been submerged by flood waters, in the first instance they should avoid contact with contaminated soil and not eat raw vegetables or salads from soil that has been submerged in flood water.

Gardens should be left exposed to the air and sunshine to dry out naturally. It is ideal to make drainage holes with a fork to aerate.

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