Island Bay beach closed over bacteria

High levels of bacteria have prompted officials to close Wellington';s Island Bay beach.

Maria Archer from the Wellington City Council says routine testing in the area has found the presence of enterococci, or microbiological pollution, including sewage.

She says the source of the contamination is not clear and engineers are urgently checking all sewer mains in the area.

Medical officer of Health Annette Nesdale says if people come into contact with the bacteria they are likely to suffer diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting.

- NEWSTALK ZB