New Zealanders are being reminded to make sure the water quality is up to scratch before taking a dip at any swimming spots this summer.
Hawke's Bay Regional Council water quality scientist Anna Madarasz-Smith, who's also the science lead at Land Air and Water (LAWA), says the majority of the more than 750 swimming spots are suitable for swimming most of the time - welcome news for Kiwis trying to cool off in the heat.
But it comes with a warning - that water quality can change quickly.
"Checking LAWA for water quality results and warnings before deciding where and when to swim can help keep you and your whānau well this summer," Madarasz-Smith said in a statement.
"Most monitored swim spots are suitable for swimming most of the time. However, the golden rule is to always check if it's good to swim before you get in by visiting [the website] 'Can I swim here?' for the most up-to-date and historical water quality data."
She said people should avoid swimming for at least 48 hours after heavy rain, follow any warning signs posted and check the water looks clean.
"Swimming in rivers, lakes, and at beaches is never without risk, however, it is a summer pastime in Aotearoa that comes with many benefits for overall wellbeing."
Madarasz-Smith also advised people to check for hazards including potentially toxic algae and fast-moving water.
"At LAWA, we seek to help people better understand and reduce the risk of getting ill after swimming in the outdoors by providing good information in a timely way."
On LAWA's 'Can I Swim Here?' website, about 200 New Zealand spots currently have red alerts, meaning 'unsuitable for swimming.'
One of Taranaki's most popular beaches for swimming - Oakura Beach - is among those in the red, with the water quality measured opposite the beach's surf lifesaving club deemed unsuitable. A large amount of swimming areas in the region have also been marked red.
Wellington's Ōtaki Beach has also been measured as unsuitable for swimming at the surf club - with a warning in effect and a rāhui in place due to potential pollution.
In Auckland, it's good news for people wanting to cool off at popular swimming spots including Kohimarama Beach and St Heliers Beach. They've been listed as green, with the latest water quality tests being taken on Wednesday.
Find out which swimming spots are in the green and the ones that should be avoided here.
