Swimming in our rohe
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council monitors water quality at popular coastal, river, and lake recreation spots, as well as shellfish beds across the rohe. This ensures our community can enjoy these areas safely.
What happens if water is contaminated?
If contamination poses a health risk:
- Health warnings: Toi Te Ora Public Health Service will issue an alert to inform the public.
- Warning signs: We may place signs at affected sites, which are removed once water quality improves. We will also post notifications on our Public Notices and Alerts webpage and via the Antenno app.
Important: Swimming or drinking contaminated water can make you sick. Make sure to stay informed and stay safe.
We don't recommend swimming in these areas
Kaiate Stream, Kaiate Falls - This site has a long-term notice in place, as there is a moderate to high risk of illness for swimmers. Toi Te Ora Public Health have a permanent health warning at this site due to the regular occurrence of unsafe bacteria levels (E. coli faecal bacteria). Information about Bay of Plenty Regional Council's work to improve water quality at this site is available here.
Uretara River, Henry Rd Ford - This site has a long-term notice in place, as there is a moderate to high risk of illness for swimmers. Toi Te Ora Public Health have a permanent health warning at this site due to the regular occurrence of unsafe bacteria levels (E. coli faecal bacteria). Information about Bay of Plenty Regional Council's work to improve water quality at this site is available here.
Precautions after rainfall
To protect your health, avoid swimming in rivers, streams, and harbour areas for 48 hours after heavy rain. Runoff can carry contaminants that may impact water quality.
Current Warnings and further information
Toi Te Ora Public Health - current warnings and alerts (including shellfish and recreational water quality health warnings)
Bay of Plenty Regional Council - Safe swimming areas
Toi Te Ora Public Health - more information on health risks and what to look out for
Swim smart checklist
Avoid swimming after heavy rain
Wait at least two days before swimming after heavy or prolonged rain. This applies even to those swim spots that usually have great water quality because all sites can be affected by pollutants in stormwater run-off.
Follow any warning signs
Please follow the advice of any safety and warning signs from authorities. Signs may be at swim spot carparks, entrances, or by the water’s edge, and as warnings on LAWA.
Check the water is clean and clear
Don’t swim or allow dogs near the water if you notice potentially toxic algae in the river or lake, or if the water is murky/smells unpleasant. Generally, if you can’t see your toes in knee deep water, find a clearer spot to swim. This factsheet has more information on toxic algae and how to identify it.
Stay away from any pipes, culverts, and flocks of birds
Avoid swimming and other water activities near sources of potential contamination - instead find a different spot along the river, lake, or beach.
Check for hazards
Hazards at swim spots may include rip currents, underwater objects, stinging jellyfish, steep drop offs, and potentially toxic algae. Our lakes, rivers, and beaches are great natural playgrounds, but they can be unpredictable. Know your limits and never swim alone. If in doubt, stay out!
Keep your furry pals safe from toxic algae
A trip to the river or lake is a lot of fun for dogs and their owners alike. Knowing how to keep your dog safe from toxic algae means you are able to relax and enjoy the adventure even more. Toxic algae can be seriously harmful to dogs and people, even in small amounts (the size of a 50 cent piece).
