We collect water samples from over 30 popular swimming and shellfish gathering sites between Lottin Point to the Wherowhero Lagoon to the Rere Rockslide.
Water quality is tested at least fortnightly, with most sites sampled weekly between November to March. Some sites are sampled monthly for the rest of the year.
Recreational water quality
Most beaches in the Gisborne region have good water quality and are generally safe for swimming.
Check our popular swimming and recreation sites below
We check our swimming sites for E.coli and Enterococci bacteria. These tests show if the water is safe for swimming. To see the results, go to our water quality data page
Avoid lagoons and estuaries
Lagoons and estuaries often have poor water quality. Bacteria from farm run-off, birdlife and urban drainage can make people sick.
They may look calm and inviting especially for children, but the water is usually not safe.
If a site seldom meets health standards, warning signs will be in place.
Lagoons we do not recommend for swimming
Turihaua lagoon - often blocked by a sandbar and only flushed during heavy rain. Farm run-off upstream accumulates, leading to poor water quality.
Hamanatua Stream lagoon - the stream empties into Wainui Beach after forming a lagoon. Run-off from surrounding farmland frequently contaminates the stream and lagoon.
Waiotu lagoon - contaminants from farms, birdlife and urban run-off collect here. It often exceeds swimming health standards and can become a pond of bacteria.
General health warning after heavy rain
Avoid swimming for 2-3 days after heavy or prolonged rain, even at beaches that usually have good water quality.
Rain flushes contaminants from rural and urban land into waterways. It takes at least 2-3 days for these to settle or flush away.
Stay clear of contaminated sources such as flocks of birds or stormwater outlets.
Clean and clear water guide
If you can't see your toes when standing in calf-deep water, the water quality is not safe for swimming.
Health risks from bacteria are higher in lagoons, rivers and streams for 3-5 days after rain, or when flows are low over summer.
Popular swimming sites
For the full list of monitored swim sites in our region, visit the LAWA website
Shellfish gathering sites
Cyanobacteria (toxic algae) may appear as khaki-green or rust-coloured blooms at certain times of year.
- These can cause skin irriation
- They are dangerous for dogs if ingested.
Ministry for Primary Industries monitors shellfish for shellfish poisoning that can be caused by naturally occurring toxic algae blooms.
They will issue public health warnings on their website
Collecting shellfish?
- Cook shellfish until the shells open and the meat is firm.
- If a shell doesn't open - don't eat it. This helps stop you from getting sick from Vibrio bacteria.
- For more details, check the MPI website
