The Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) has changed its name to the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) as of 1 July 2025. The new website address is www.phfscience.nz. Visitors will automatically be redirected to the new address. Please check and update any links and bookmarks after this change.

Recreational Water Quality Guidelines Update

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Summary

Water recreation is important to the wellbeing of communities and can provide economic benefits from tourism. However, the presence of pathogens from environmental faecal contamination may adversely affect public health. Recreational water quality guidelines are developed to protect public health and to support management of water quality.

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