Caution around swimming in the lagoon at rivermouth

Residents and visitors are advised by Auckland Council to avoid swimming in the lagoon at the rivermouth due to the levels of faecal (read: shit) matter in the water.

Routine testing is done at the beach and in the lagoon by the Council's environmental team. Tests through December and January showed the water quality was within guidelines, however tests since February have shown up unacceptable levels of contamination, the main sources being birds, dogs, stock and yes, there are even small traces of human waste.

Testing has shown the swimming holes at the Orere School and the campground are also revealing higher than normal contamination levels and both groups have been advised directly by the Council officers.

The Council's teams will be monitoring contamination levels in the months ahead, and will be looking to identify any possible sources and steps that can be taken to reduce contaminants entering the river.

In the meantime, signage will be used to advise swimmers of the potential risk of using the area. There is negligible contamination in the sea around the beach itself and there are no concerns around swimming there.

To read more about the levels and testing sites, please click the link below.

Ōrere Point water quality issues memo_April_May 2022 final.pdf

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