Boil water notice extended in east Christchurch after bacteria found

Residents in several eastern suburbs of Christchurch, New Zealand, are being advised to continue boiling their water after bacteria were detected in the Rawhiti water supply. The initial notice was issued on Saturday and an update on Sunday confirmed the advisory remains in place.

Boil Water Notice Extended

The Christchurch City Council stated that while recent water sampling across the wider Rawhiti zone is “looking good,” a second positive test result from the same location prevents them from lifting the notice at this time. Approximately 30,000 residents are affected, according to recent census data.

Did You Know? An emergency mobile alert was sent to residents shortly before 1pm on Saturday, February 14, 2026, warning of the public health risk.

The council intends to reopen a community drinking water station at 345 Keyes Rd, providing residents with access to chlorine-free water confirmed safe for consumption. Staff and contractors are actively investigating the potential causes of the contamination and conducting further sampling throughout the affected zone.

What Water Should Be Boiled?

Residents are instructed to boil all water used for drinking, food preparation, and hygiene purposes. This includes water used for making formula, juices, and ice, as well as for washing fruits and vegetables and brushing teeth. All water, including filtered water, must be boiled continuously for at least one minute.

Expert Insight: Maintaining a boil water advisory requires ongoing monitoring and communication with the public. The council’s commitment to ensuring confidence with Taumata Arowai, and achieving three days of clear results, demonstrates a cautious and responsible approach to public health.

The council specifically warned that “instant” boil water systems may not reach a sufficient temperature to kill harmful bacteria. However, jugs with automatic cut-off switches are acceptable, provided they are filled to capacity and the switch is not held down to prolong boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are affected by the boil water notice?

The notice covers the Rawhiti water supply zone, including New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui and Southshore.

When will the boil water notice be lifted?

The notice will be lifted once the council can provide confidence to Taumata Arowai that the water is safe to drink, and after achieving at least three consecutive days of positive test results.

Where can residents obtain safe drinking water?

The council will reopen the community drinking water station at 345 Keyes Rd, allowing residents to fill containers with chlorine-free water.

As the council continues its investigation and monitoring, residents in the affected areas should remain vigilant and adhere to the boiling water instructions.