Danger warnings remain in place for Canterbury river

7:28 pm on 4 January 2022

A Canterbury river remains off-limits as high levels of E Coli, toxic algae and faecal bacteria continue to make the water dangerous to swimmers and fishers.

Selwyn River

Selwyn River Photo: Green Ideas editor Greg Roughan

Selwyn River, just south of Christchurch, still carries a public health warning from the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB), nearly a week after it was first issued.

CDHB spokesperson Cheryl Brunton said in most cases, exposure to contaminated water was minor and short-lived.

But with the Selwyn River, she said there was potential for more serious health effects due to high levels of faecal bacteria.

The sites where water quality is affected are listed on the Land Air Water Aotearoa website.

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