Water back on in Pukerua Bay, but residents told to boil it

Pukerua Bay was badly hit by ex-Cyclone Gita and now its water supply is potentially contaminated. Photo / Georgina Campbell

Water is back on for Pukerua Bay residents, but it is still not safe to drink.

A contractor yesterday sank a pile through the water main and a sewer, likely contaminating the drinking supply with wastewater.

About 50 homes are affected on Pukerua Beach and Ocean Parade Rds, and Brendan Beach.

Wellington Water said the wastewater system is now functioning so people can flush their toilets, and water mains linked to the drinking supply have also been super chlorinated and flushed.

But spokesman Gary O'Meara said that does not mean it is safe to drink from the tap.

He said a boil water notice will be in place for at least the next three days while E.Coli testing is done.

A water tanker is in the area for people who would prefer to fill up water containers and bottles.

All affected properties have been visited, but crews will be back in the area this morning with a public health advisory.

The contamination scare comes just days after the small community was hammered by ex-Cyclone Gita.

Hannah Chevis, 16, said it had been stressful dealing with the water contamination so soon after the storm.

She said a lot of people's homes and roads were damaged.

Anyone who starts to feel unwell sould seek advice from their doctor or contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.