Bathing water quality

Download the 2011 Recreational bathing water quality annual monitoring summary here. (1.2MB PDF)

Nelson's beaches and swimming holes are regularly enjoyed by locals and visitors.

Over the summer months bacteria levels for these sites are monitored to minimise the risk of contact with harmful water borne bacteria and viruses, causing illness.

Bathing water quality in Nelson is generally very good. However, elevated bacteria levels can occur naturally. These come from various sources such as wild birds and animals. Other sources occur indirectly as pollution from human sewage and from land use, such as farming livestock. An increase in bacteria often occurs after periods of rainfall when river flow increases from land run-off and storm water.

Key 2010/2011 results for Recreational Bathing water quality

Nelson's beaches monitored at Nelson Haven (Atawhai), Cable Bay, Tahunanui beach and Monaco (Wharf) were all suitable for recreational bathing over the 2010/ 2011 summer.

The Maitai Camp, Sunday Hole and Girlies Hole all had a Fair bathing water quality recreation grade. Sites with grades Fair to Good are suitable for recreation most of the time. Exceptions may include after rainfall.

A health warning remains in place for the lower Maitai below Collingwood Street Bridge and for the Wakapuaka River at Paremata Flats Reserve warning people not to swim at these sites.