Most of region's popular swimming spots passing water-quality tests

Most swimming spots at the region’s beaches, streams and rivers have been given the all clear in latest LAWA test results for water quality, but places like Rere Falls (above) and the Rere Rockslide are still out of bounds. File picture

Latest water quality test results from Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) indicate most of the region’s beaches, rivers and streams are suitable for swimming and bathing.

The water quality is tested regularly at more than 30 popular local swimming sites between Lottin Point and Rere Rockslide.

The tests are conducted at least fortnightly, with most sites sampled weekly between November and March.

Tests carried out on January 3 and 4 showed safe water quality levels at Anaura Bay north and south camps, Karakatuwhero River at SH35 bridge, Makarika Stream, Makorori settlement, Mangahauini River (Tokomaru Bay), Midway Surf Club, Pouawa, Sponge Bay, Tokomaru Bay, Tolaga Bay at the surf club and campground ends, Turanganui River at the Gladstone Road Bridge, Turihaua Beach and at Turihaua Bridge on SH35, Uawa River Bridge in Tolaga Bay, Urukokamuka Stream, Waiapu River, Waikanae Beach at Grey Street, Waimata River at Anzac Park, Wainui Beach, Waiotu Stream, Waipiro Bay and Wherowhero Lagoon.

Caution has been advised in the Hamanatua Stream at Okitu, in tests done opposite the Kaiti Yacht Club, and the Waipaoa River at Kanakanaia.

Poor water quality showed up at the Anaura Bay lagoon, in the Hangaroa River at Doneraille Park, and in the Wharekahika River.

There was no recent data provided for Lottin Point, Onepoto Beach past Hicks Bay, and Te Araroa.

Likewise for the Rere Falls and Rere Rockslide.

The council has put out a handy guide online.

“If you cannot see your toes when standing in calf-deep water, the water quality is not the best for a swim,” is the message.

“Be aware — lagoons and estuaries often have poor water quality and the bacteria can make you sick.

“They may seem nice safe places for children to swim, but the quality of the water is usually not good.

“If water seldom meets health requirements a sign will be in place.

“Avoid the lagoons at Wainui Hamanatua Stream, Turihaua and Waiotu lagoons.

“Although lagoons look nice and safe and are often warm, we don’t recommend swimming in them.”

The council website provides links to the latest water quality data.