A blockage in a sewer pipe in Oxford Street near Washbourn Gardens in Richmond, has led to an unknown quantity untreated sewage flowing into our storm water system.
This blockage was caused by someone flushing wet wipes down a toilet.
The stormwater system eventually flows into the Waimea Estuary at Beach Road which means as a precaution shellfish should not be collected from the estuary for the next 28 days.
People should also avoid contact with the water in the area.
Warning signs are in place and water testing will be done to determine the extent of potential contamination.
This is a timely reminder that only the three ‘P’s, pee, pooh and paper, should be flushed down the toilet.