A warning has been issued advising people to stay out of the water at Sumner beach until further notice following possible sewage pollution in the water.
Warning signs have been put up on the beach as a precautionary measure after it was discovered there had been a small wastewater overflow.
However the warning only applies to a certain stretch of the beach where signs are visible.
The Christchurch beach is popular with locals and tourists during warmer months and is frequently full with beach-goers on weekends.
The Christchurch City Council says samples have been taken from the beach to test for bacteria levels.
More samples are expected to be taken over the next 48 hours while the warnings stay in place.
Medical Officer of Health Cheryl Brunton says the risk to people is minimal but should avoid swimming or collecting shellfish in the area until further notice.
Newshub.
