This map will give you an indication whether a swimming spot is generally suitable for swimming, based on risk of faecal contamination and water testing for faecal indicator bacteria. However, even the cleanest spots can be unsuitable to swim in from time to time when they get contaminated. We recommend that you avoid swimming during or shortly after rainfall as urban or agricultural run-off may affect bathing water quality at these times.
 
If recent faecal contamination at the swimming spot is detected, the district council will erect signs, warning of the health risk.  If you notice any pollution, please contact the Pollution Hotline 24/7 on (03) 366 4663 in Christchurch or 0800 76 55 88 outside of Christchurch.

For information on shellfish food safety please check: www.cpublichealth.co.nz.

• Check swimming water quality here or click on the map image below

Please note:

The swimming water quality grades are based on the Microbiological Water Quality Guidelines for Marine and Freshwater Recreational Areas.  They assess the risk of contracting a disease from pathogens and do not consider the risks from the presence of toxic algae. Where the potentially toxic algae, Phormidium has been observed as part of our summer monitoring programme, an additional warning has been added to the affected sites on the following maps.

• View the current RIVER warnings for toxic algae
• View the current LAKE warnings for algae bloom
• View further information on toxic algae

 Note: the snapshot above is merely of part of the map of swimming water spots in Canterbury, you need to click on it to see the full map.