Residents in the Selwyn Rural Water Supply (Glentunnel) are advised to immediately begin boiling water.

Following high levels of rain last week, the Selwyn River was in flood, resulting in unacceptable levels of e.coli (an organism which can cause health issues). People are advised to visit their doctors if they are showing any symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea.

The Selwyn District Council were chlorinating at the time however have increased the dosage after testing showed e.coli was still present in affected areas.

If people wish to disinfect private tanks, they can contact the Council for further information, 347 2800 or 318 8338 (Darfield area). An information sheet can be found on the Council website, www.selwyn.govt.nz.

The council will continue to monitor the intake and reticulation system and keep residents informed. Chlorination will stop as soon as soon as no bacteria are present.