Christchurch City Council has issued a boil water notice for several eastern suburbs of Christchurch this afternoon.
An emergency mobile alert was issued shortly before 1pm, warning of a public health risk affecting the Rawhiti water supply, including New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui, and Southshore.
“PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT: All people in the Rawhiti water supply zone, New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui, and Southshore are advised to BOIL ALL DRINKING WATER until further notice.”
Residents were instructed to boil water used for drinking, food preparation and hygiene.
“Boil all water for drinking, making up formula, juices and ice, washing fruits and vegetables, other cooking needs, and brushing teeth. All water (including filtered) needs to be continuously boiled for at least 1 minute.”
The alert warned, “‘Instant’ boil water systems do not boil water sufficiently”.
“It is OK to use jugs with an automatic cut-off switch as long as they are full. Do not hold the switch down to increase boiling time.”
Presence of bacteria
Christchurch City Council said testing in the area showed the presence of bacteria in drinking water, making it unsafe to drink.
“Staff and contractors are in the area undertaking further testing and investigations to understand the cause of the contamination. Until we have further information the boil water notice will remain in place.”
It is estimated there is around 30,000 residents in the notice area, according to the most recent Census data.
