Emergency sewer valves closed but no fishing or swimming for five days

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

People are advised to stay out of the water, after 12 days of sewer discharges into waterways here.

Gisborne District Council confirmed the emergency sewer valves were closed at 3pm Friday.

The council advises no swimming, fishing, or gathering shellfish in rivers and beaches for five days from the time valves were closed, and warning signs are removed.

“The discharge to wai was to prevent sewage from overflowing back into people’s homes and properties in the city, and onto roads, causing a significant health risk,” council senior wastewater operations engineer Phillip Dodds said.

“Unfortunately, this  results in health risks in the rivers, beaches and nearby coastal areas, which is why we advise against swimming, fishing or gathering shellfish in rivers and beaches over this time.

“A large amount of stormwater is getting into the wastewater system from private properties. Our DrainWise team are inspecting properties and working with homeowners to fix stormwater and wastewater drainage to reduce the risk of discharges happening in the future.

“Head to our website for more information on the DrainWise project or to get in touch with the team, email Drainwise@gdc.govt.nz

“We’re always trying to improve our communication when discharges occur. If you have any feedback, suggestions or questions please contact comms@gdc.govt.nz.”