Wellington, New Zealand — All swimming spots around Wellington have been flagged as unsafe, with red “unsuitable for swimming” labels posted due to recent wastewater discharges. The warnings impact popular recreation areas and raise concerns about water quality as the region heads into warmer months.
Pollution Prompts Beach Closures Across Wellington Region
Warnings are in effect for both Wellington’s south coast and Lower Hutt beaches following separate wastewater incidents.
- Untreated wastewater was discharged along parts of Wellington’s south coast.
- All Lower Hutt swimming spots, including Petone and Eastbourne, are currently unsuitable for swimming.
- A UV disinfection system upgrade is the cause of the ongoing issue, expected to last until May of next year.
- Rainfall exacerbates the problem, potentially leading to further discharges of partially treated wastewater.
Wellington Water is replacing the ultraviolet water disinfection system at the Moa Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. This upgrade has resulted in the discharge of partially-treated wastewater approximately 2 kilometers off the coast of Lyall Bay. The area is a favorite among surfers, divers, and swimmers, making the closures particularly disruptive.
What’s the Risk to Swimmers?
A: No. Wellington Water advises against swimming on the south coast for at least 48 hours after rainfall, and ongoing caution is urged due to the potential for further discharges of partially treated wastewater.
Land Air and Water Aotearoa (LAWA) reports the upgrade is anticipated to continue until May of next year, meaning the plant will operate at reduced capacity for several months. “When it’s raining, wastewater volumes are higher than usual, and some wastewater may bypass the full treatment, resulting in a discharge of partially treated wastewater via the long outfall pipe, 1.8km offshore. Any discharges in this location, will be heavily diluted due to significant tidal flows,” LAWA stated.
Beyond the south coast, all Lower Hutt swimming spots – including the popular beaches of Petone and Eastbourne – have been deemed unsuitable for swimming. This follows a separate discharge into an urban stream. Boxing Day, 2023, Enterococci bacteria results confirmed the unsafe conditions.
Wastewater was also released into Wellington Harbour from the Waiwhetu Stream in Lower Hutt following heavy rainfall, according to Wellington Water. While this wastewater was fully treated, officials acknowledge it may have an unpleasant odor.
LAWA notes that the waste discharges could cause cloudy or murky water conditions at both Wellington’s south coast and Lower Hutt beaches. Water quality will continue to be monitored following rainfall and any further wastewater releases.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed about water quality updates and heed all posted warnings.
