Following a test at Simpsons Beach on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, that showed high levels of E. coli (299), had further testing over a larger area conducted on Tuesday, 23 April. Alarmingly, E. coli was found at all three storm drainage points discharging onto the beach. The tests did not include the northern and southern ends of the beach where the streams discharge into the sea. However, they will be included in the next testing.
Readings ranged from (MPN/100ml) 276 to 308 to 387. It’s important to note: this is seawater. The maximum acceptable safe level in water meant for human consumption is ONE.
All tests were taken under the direction of Hill Labs – the internationally accredited laboratory recognised for conducting such tests. It is now widely known and accepted across N.Z. that all septic tanks leach and should not be used within at least 2kms of the foreshore. Fortunately, T.C.D.C. is finally in the process of working through providing the much needed, and long overdue, infrastructure that will address this issue. Although, TCDC will now need to reassess their statement that they would not be reticulating the toilets at Winiata Reserve (one of the highest readings).
We suggest that TCDC follow up on the testing as it is expensive and is currently being paid for by local residents committed to not just the environment, but to the health and safety of all. Children are particularly vulnerable. A child can become extremely ill if exposed to even low levels of E.coli. I don’t believe the problem stops at Simpsons Beach. Council should be conducting regular testing across the Peninsula where septic tanks are still used close to our beaches.
The Lake Tarawera community is one of the more recent localities to have had to resort to reticulated sewage. The lake became badly contaminated after the population boomed and the number of baches and septic tanks increased. The lake water is now fresh and fully “alive” again, and residents are happy and confident that the water is safe for all.
** The article has been updated to clarify that the comparison for the levels indicated was regarding seawater, which has different safe levels to drinking water.
