Positive test results at three sample sites have been returned in relation to the ongoing monitoring of the Tākaka bore water following the fire at the ITM building site on 11 January 2024. 

A positive sample was taken on Monday 22 January in Factory Road – which is outside the initial area of concern – as well as two properties on Motupipi Street within the original zone. 

We identified a number of houses and workplaces in Motupipi Street that use bore water that could have been potentially contaminated by run-off from firefighting at the ITM building site on Thursday 11 January. These occupiers have been contacted by Council staff. 

Bore water testing has been occurring since 11 January with the area of focus being a cluster of properties around Motupipi Street. 

On the 22 January 2024 we sampled for the following:  

  • BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes)
  • Heavy metals
  • Volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds
  • Total petroleum hydrocarbons
  • Arsenic, Boron, Cadmium, Copper, Lead, Manganese, Mercury

All the samples are compliant with the drinking water standards except for three sample sites that were found to have levels of Dichloromethane higher than the drinking water standard.  

Dichloromethane (also known as Methylene Chloride) is a widely used organic solvent found in paints, insecticides, degreasing and cleaning fluids, and paint strippers. We are consulting with public health experts at Te Whatu Ora, and ESR to ensure we provide the correct public health advice. At this stage the situation is not considered high risk but we are recommending a precautionary approach to not drink the water. 

If you are concerned about your health or are feeling unwell please contact Healthline for advice 0800 611 116, or seek medical attention immediately.  

If you need urgent attention, call 111 and ask for Ambulance. 

We would like to thank all residents and businesses in the affected area for their patience and understanding during this time.  

These measures have taken place with the community’s well-being in mind and we hope to have the situation resolved as soon as possible. 

We are working with the laboratory and environmental scientists to locate the source of the Dichloromethane.  While this positive test result is yet to be linked to the run-off from firefighting at the ITM building site on Thursday 11 January, we are taking necessary precautions to ensure that the health of the community is not put in jeopardy. 

Therefore, our advice to refrain from drinking the water remains in place for the existing zone as well as the rest of Motupipi Street, Factory Road and the first section of Abel Tasman Drive (to Scotts Corner). 

We will continue to test water in the area and will update the community as more information can be provided.