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Can I swim here?

Find the best swimming spots in New Zealand this summer at over 870 beach, river and lake locations.

Water quality is monitored from November to March for most regions, with predicted water quality results available year-round for Northland, Auckland and Wellington. 

Want to dig a little deeper? Select a site to see its water quality history, available facilities, directions on how to get to there, and to learn more about water quality monitoring.

Desktop users can use the interactive map to explore swimming locations.

Water quality

  • Check the water quality information for the site.  
  • Know how to spot potentially toxic algae in rivers or lakes so you can avoid it.
  • Avoid swimming near potential sources of contamination such as flocks of birds, storm water or waste water outlets.

Clean and clear

  • Avoid swimming for at least 2 - 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain, even for sites that have good water quality.
  • Don't swim if the water is murky or smells unpleasant. It is best to wait until it clears before taking a dip. 

EnvironmentalHazards

  • Check for hazards (e.g. rips or strong river currents, underwater objects, steep drop-offs, or stinging jellyfish at beaches).
  • Know your limits, and never swim alone.  If in doubt, stay out.
  • Follow the advice in any warnings and alerts. 

 

LAWA is the most comprehensive and up-to-date source of recreational water quality information for New Zealand. LAWA provides this information so you can use it as a guide to decide where and when to swim.  Please note that water quality monitoring results are representative at the time of sampling.  Water quality can change over time, especially during periods of significant rain or from unexpected pollution events.  If you are unsure, please check with the relevant council or choose another site to swim.  Water quality results from weekly monitoring are not intended to provide a guide on suitability for swimming outside the recreational bathing season (around November to March for most regions).  LAWA takes no responsibility for the accuracy of information presented, and accepts no liability for actions taken of others based on this information.

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