Puhokio Stream at Waimarama Beach contaminated

17 March 2005

Swimming warning – Puhokio Stream at Waimarama Beach contaminated

Hawke’s Bay’s District Health Board Medical Officer of Health, Dr Caroline McElnay, today issued a warning, advising members of the public not to swim in the Puhokio Stream at Waimarama Beach due to contamination.

Dr McElnay says monitoring by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council identified high levels of E. coli in water samples taken on Tuesday 15 th March. “The levels exceeded the maximum levels recommended in the Ministries of Health and Environments Recreational Water Guidelines”. The level of these bacteria indicates excessive amounts of faecal matter, either animal or human was in the water.

All surface water should be assessed before swimming by checking the water clarity, evaluating the number of animals and water birds in or near the swimming point.

The safety of water can change rapidly following heavy rain and it is recommended that three days of fine weather should pass before swimming at any river, lagoon or estuary. Extremely heavy rainfall can also make the sea contaminated as well.

In the case of this waterway, people are warned against entering its water at any time, due to frequent water contamination. Permanent signage is displayed at a number of access points to this river.

It may be tempting to “hit” the water, however the Public Health Unit recommends that people phone the Safe Swimming Line for the latest water quality results before they set off for a day in or on the water. The number is (06) 878-1368 and the line is updated regularly with information on sites that are contaminated.

“This is definitely a good time to use a swimming pool.” Dr McElnay said.

Information is also available on the Hawkes Bay Regional Council website www.hbrc.govt.nz.

ENDS

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