A rāhui is currently in place around Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour in Canterbury following the discharge of untreated sewage into its waters yesterday.
Health Warning Issued
Health New Zealand issued a health warning covering areas including Te Waipapa/Diamond Harbour, Purau Bay, Kaioruru/Church Bay, and Te Wharau/Charteris Bay. Dr. Imogen Evans, a public health medicine specialist for the National Public Health Service, stated that the water quality in Diamond Harbour is “not considered suitable for recreational uses, including swimming” due to the risk of bacteria and pathogens.
The rāhui, enacted by Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke (Rāpaki) through the Rāpaki Tangata Tiaki, prohibits the taking of seafood within the harbour. Health New Zealand has stated that no further permits will be issued during the seven-day rāhui, and potentially beyond. The hapū are contacting permit holders from the last 24 hours.
Contamination Plume Observed
Environment Canterbury reported observing a “visible contamination plume” in the harbour on Saturday, which has since reduced but continues to move toward the harbour heads. The amount of sewage discharged is currently unknown. Environment Canterbury will collaborate with the Christchurch City Council to determine the cause of the discharge and prevent future incidents. The affected pump station has been closed by the Christchurch City Council.
This incident follows a similar event in Wellington, where a failure at the Moa Point Wastewater Treatment Plant resulted in raw sewage entering the city’s southern coastline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are affected by the health warning?
The health warning covers Te Waipapa/Diamond Harbour, Purau Bay, Kaioruru/Church Bay, and Te Wharau/Charteris Bay.
What is a rāhui?
A rāhui is a traditional Māori practice that restricts access to natural resources. In this case, it prohibits the taking of seafood within Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour.
What caused the discharge of sewage?
The amount of sewage discharged and the specific cause are currently unknown, but Environment Canterbury is working to determine “what went wrong.”
As investigations continue, residents and visitors are urged to heed the health warning and respect the rāhui. What steps can communities take to advocate for resilient infrastructure and prevent similar incidents in the future?
