Good quality water is an essential part of natural ecosystems. Recreational water quality can also affect the health of recreational water users if high levels of harmful organisms such as viruses, algae, bacteria and protozoa are present.
Samples taken from the Avon and Heathcote Rivers since 2003 have consistently exceeded national guidelines for microbiological water quality.
Contamination from human sewage after the February 2011 earthquake had a significant impact on recreational water quality between Lyttelton Harbour and Spencerville.
Read the full issue summary on recreational water quality [PDF] - last updated November 2011.