Please note the below health warning for Canterbury beaches.

The National Public Health Service of Te Whatu Ora and Environment Canterbury are advising the public that a number of Canterbury beaches are unsuitable for swimming this summer due to high levels of faecal contamination. 

Sites to avoid include Akaroa Main Beach, Corsair Bay, Rāpaki Bay, Sandy Bay, Diamond Harbour Beach, Purau Beach, Tikao Bay and West Caroline Bay (the rest of Caroline Bay is suitable for swimming). There are also some lakes and rivers across the region that have been graded unsuitable for contact recreation.

Temporary health warnings may also be issued as the summer goes on, especially as anticipated hot dry weather conditions lead to a higher risk of toxic algae in our rivers and lakes.

Environment Canterbury monitors more than 100 recreation sites for microbial risk and toxic algae across Canterbury. Visit the (LAWA) website to find out where it’s best to hold your event this summer.

Exposure to contaminated water can lead to symptoms such as diarrhoea and/or vomiting, skin inflammation and respiratory illnesses. Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Cheryl Brunton says that it’s always a good idea to check out the quality of water before you jump in. Check out LAWA - Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) - Can I swim here?