Boil water notice in place
Testing in the area showed the presence of bacteria in drinking water which means it is unsafe to drink.
As part of our normal sample programme, we test for E.coli and total coliforms. The sample showed no E.coli was present, just total coliforms.
Total coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the environment, and their presence in the water network serves as an indicator of potential contamination and the possible existence of harmful pathogens.
All water used for drinking, food preparation, utensil washing, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled until further notice.
Staff and contractors are in the area undertaking further testing and investigations to understand the cause of the contamination. Until we have further information the boil water notice will remain in place.
Bringing water to the boil is sufficient to kill bugs. If you can’t boil your water then bottled water is the only other option.
The Council has issued text alerts to residents’ cell phones. The text alerts can also be received by people travelling into the areas. Residents are encouraged to share the message with their neighbours.
The boil water notice will be in place until further notice.
More information on our website.
Why has the Council issued the boil water notice?
A Boil Water Notice has been issued on Saturday 14 February 2026 for the Rawhiti water supply zone: which includes parts of New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui and Southshore.
Residents, businesses and visitors to these areas are advised to boil their water until further notice after a sample within the zone was found to be contaminated.
Which residents are having to boil their water?
Residents and visitors to New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui and Southshore are being advised to boil their water.
Why are they having to boil water?
Testing in the area showed the presence of bacteria in drinking water which means it is unsafe to drink.
All water used for drinking, food preparation, utensil washing, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled until further notice.
Are there contaminates in the water?
Testing in the area showed the presence of bacteria in drinking water which means it is unsafe to drink.
How long will the boil water notice stay in place?
The boil water notice will remain in place until further notice.
Will boiling the water kill the bugs?
Bringing water to the boil is sufficient to kill bugs. If you cannot boil water, treat it by adding one teaspoon of household bleach per 10 litres of water and leave for 30 minutes.
What is the health concern?
Although waterborne diseases are extremely rare, they can be serious. The risk is higher for infants, the elderly, and persons with immune deficiency disorders.
What can I do?
Disinfect water used for drinking (including pets), cooking, brushing teeth, rinsing contact lenses, shaving and making ice. Use one of the following methods:
- Boiling. Boil water vigorously for one minute after it reaches a full boil.
- Use bottled water.
Water does not need to be disinfected for bathing, showering, or laundry. Be careful not to drink water while you’re in the shower.
When can we stop boiling the water?
Staff and contractors are in the area undertaking further testing and investigations to understand the cause of the contamination. Until we have further information the boil water notice will remain in place.
We will notify people as soon as the boil water notice is lifted.
What happens if I feel ill?
It’s very unlikely that you are feeling ill because of the water supply, but please call or visit your doctor for advice. We’re recommending boiling water as a precaution only.