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].