Update: Wastewater discharge into the Buller River

Two wastewater discharges into the Buller River took place over the weekend, on Friday and Sunday afternoons on the outgoing tide.

Laboratory testing is underway to confirm river water quality. Results typically take several days. A final update will be provided once the results are available.

In the meantime, please continue to avoid entering or coming into contact with water below the Buller Bridge until Wednesday, 3 September 2025. Council will review any preliminary test results as soon as they are available.

Council advises all water users to abide by the wastewater overflow signage and avoid recreational water activities for 48 hours following these discharges. 

Food gathering, including whitebaiting, should be avoided in affected rivers and lagoons.

If you have any queries, please contact Council on 0800 807 239 or email info@bdc.govt.nz with the subject line 'Wastewater discharge'.