As much as 150 cubic metres of raw sewage flowed into the Waimea Estuary near Nelson and Richmond overnight after an equipment failure at a pump station.
The spill occurred overnight on Monday at the Beach Rd pump station when a hose failed during bypass pumping ahead of works to connect a new rising main.
Tasman District Council said the spill reached Saltwater Creek through an overland stormwater flow then washed into the estuary.
“At this stage, we’re not able to say how much wastewater got into the waterway but it is estimated to be less than 150 cubic metres,” a spokesperson said.
Environmental monitoring is underway and warning signs are being put in place.
Residents were advised to avoid contact with the water in the stream and the adjacent tidal area until further notice.
Shellfish should not be taken from the immediate area.
