Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora released an updated health alert, following official notification on February 7, 2026, of untreated sewage being discharged into Diamond Harbour | Te Waipapa.
The health warning covers Diamond Harbour | Te Waipapa, Purau Bay, Church Bay | Kaioruru, and Charteris Bay | Te Wharau.
Water quality at the affected site is not considered suitable for recreational uses, including swimming, because of the risk to health from the bacteria and other pathogens,” Dr Imogen Evans, Public Health Medicine Specialist for the National Public Health Service, said.
“Water contaminated by human matter may contain a range of disease-causing microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria and protozoa.”
Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke (Rāpaki), via the Rāpaki Tangata Tiaki, has placed a seven-day rāhui on harvesting kai moana in Whakaraupō. Consuming shellfish, fish, or other kai moana from the area is highly discouraged.
Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke is reaching out to holders of permits issued in the last 24 hours, with no new permits to be granted during the seven-day rāhui—or potentially longer.