Changes to public health advice regarding Moa Point
Wellington, Hutt and Kapiti
Changes have been announced today by Wellington Water regarding the significant incident at the Moa Point Wastewater Treatment Plant which resulted in untreated sewage discharging into the south coast on 4 February 2026.
Current advice is that people can now go on the beaches and swim near the shore in the area from Ōwhiro Bay to Breaker Bay. This area excludes Tarakena Bay which remains a no-go area due to its proximity to the short outfall pipe.
Since the discharge began, an interagency group including National Public Health, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Wellington City Council and Wellington Water has been monitoring the daily water quality sample results.
However, some caution is still advised. The sample sites tested have not included areas out in the Cook Strait near the long outfall pipe, so activities further from the shore, such as surfing and diving should be conducted at people’s own risk.
Public health officials strongly advise against gathering shellfish or kaimoana from the south coast area. Shellfish can be contaminated for weeks after exposure to sewage and eating the contaminated shellfish could make you sick.
Seek medical attention and inform the healthcare provider of your possible contact with sewage if you develop symptoms such as:
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- fever
- cough
- rash
- skin infections
- irritation of the ears, nose or throat.
Healthline is a free over-the phone health service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0800 611 116.
Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) remains the best source of information about the affected area and other areas suitable for recreational use.
Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA)external link
If the short outfall is used, Wellington Water will alert LAWA immediately, who will continue to provide advice to the public about which beaches are safe to swim at along the south coast. LAWA’s standard advice is to not enter the water during rainfall, or after rain for 48 hours remains.
The public should always check lawa.co.nz before entering the water to see if it’s safe to swim.