This summers Safeswim beach water quality monitoring is underway with more than 60 beaches in the region included in the programme.

Samples from 69 beaches stretching from Hatfields Beach in the north to Sandspit Beach, near Waiuku, in the south are now being collected and tested for specific bacteria.

Results from Auckland Councils weekly monitoring will be available online and via an 0800 Safeswim number. The programme will run to 26 March next year.

Environmental Services manager Janis McArdle says the Safeswim programme ensures the water at the regions key recreational beaches is regularly tested and the public advised if it is safe to swim at the monitored sites.

"If the tests indicate there is any potential public health risk, Auckland Council will promptly erect warning signs in the relevant locations. These will only be removed once the water quality is assessed to be safe."

Water samples are collected on a Tuesday or Wednesday, using a helicopter to help the team cover a large number of sites quickly and cost-effectively. The test results are available by the weekend via 0800 SAFESWIM (0800 723 379) and online at http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/safeswim.

Generally, the water quality at Aucklands swimming beaches is very good and meets New Zealand heath guidelines. However, if there is heavy rain, or if pollutants enter our waterways, this can quickly change.

People should wait 48 hours after heavy rain before swimming at the beach. They should also avoid swimming near stormwater outflows, stream and river mouths at all times, she says.

Remember, if you see any pollution please report it to the councils pollution response team via 09 301 0101 or directly on our Pollution Hotline 09 377 3107.

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Water quality testing underway for Auckland beaches