We smell a problem ... an update on Titirangi Beach water quality

What’s going on with our beaches? It’s been a gloriously warm summer and our beaches are very inviting. But are Titirangi’s main beaches okay to swim in … or not? ZOE HAWKINS investigates.

If you’ve been anywhere near Titirangi Beach this summer you’ll be aware it’s hard to miss the stench emanating from Paturoa Stream.

Despite conjecture about various causes, the smell is believed to come from natural causes. Auckland Council Safeswim Programme Manager Nick Vigar explains:

“The stream has a pungent smell as there has not been significant rainfall in a while and the stream has not been flushed out by rain. As a result, organic material such as grass and leaves rot in shallow water. This process uses up the oxygen in the stream and naturally produces sulphur dioxide, which has a strong smell and turns the water a dark colour. Although it looks and smells unpleasant, it is a natural process and will be remedied when there is more rain.”

And thanks to poor water quality that is likely due to long-standing issues with our infrastructure, Titirangi Beach and Wood Bay have had permanent health warnings applied since 2016. After rainfall French Bay is also regularly flagged as ‘high risk’ for swimming, although it is considered safe at other times.

“Titirangi Beach, French Bay, Green Bay and Wood Bay are scheduled to have CCTV investigations conducted, starting this month. CCTV is used to evaluate the condition of public stormwater and wastewater assets,” Nick Vigar says.

“Subsequently private drainage investigations for Titirangi Beach, French

Bay, Green Bay and Wood Bay have been scheduled for April and May. These investigations are conducted to identify possible cross connections between wastewater and stormwater pipes and any other issues that could contribute to wastewater contaminating the stormwater network.

“The CCTV and private drainage investigations will help identify what may be causing the unsafe water quality. When investigations are completed, any issues with public or private drainage will be referred to the appropriate team within council to resolve.”

In the meantime, those swimming at French Bay, like most other beaches in Auckland, are advised to check the Safeswim website for reliable indicators of water quality. If you believe that any harmful substances are polluting our streams or beaches, please call the Pollution Hotline, 377 3107.

You can look at the beach but you wouldn't want to swim in it. Paturoa Stream is full of stagnant, smelly water, even at high tide.

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