A 'do not drink' notice has been issued in the Central Otago town of Roxburgh after over-chlorinated water entered the town's drinking supply.
Photo: 123RF
Central Otago District Council said its sensors at the town reservoir were triggered just before 8am and it would have taken at least 30 minutes for the over-chlorinated water to reach the town.
"We understand anyone who drunk water after 8.20am will feel concerned," the council said.
"We are seeking advice from Public Health South and will update you as soon as we have a response from them. In the meantime we are taking a cautionary approach - use bottled or tanker water (located at the school and the hospital) for all drinking, making up formula, juices and ice, washing fruits and vegetables, other cooking needs, and brushing teeth.
"Boiling will not remove contamination. Take care when bathing and showering so that you don't swallow water.
"Schools, businesses and people registered on our vulnerable persons' list have been contacted. We encourage any person who sees this to make sure their neighbours, friends and family know."
It was suspected work on a culvert on State Highway 8, about 500 metres north of Roxburgh, might have caused the problem.
"At this stage, we believe the upgrades currently being done on the culvert at Pumphouse Creek triggered a slug of chlorine to enter the reservoir that supplies water to Roxburgh," the council said.
The 'do not drink' notice was expected to remain in effect for hours.
"We are currently working on the network and at this stage expect the issue to be resolved in about five hours. We will keep you updated," the council said, a short time ago.