Enjoy the crystalline waters of the Waiau River on the edge of its namesake township. 'Waiau' is a native word meaning 'turbulent water'.

The Waiau River is monitored for both scientific and recreational water quality near Waiau township, immediately upstream of the Waiau Bridge. This site is best accessed from the south side of the bridge. The river is a typical braided river consisting of a gravel riverbed with numerous channels. The mainstream tends to carry the majority of water and is best for swimming and recreation. This site is popular with jetboaters, fishermen, and other recreational activities. The site has limited shade and so is exposed to the sun and the water can be swift.

This site is monitored weekly between November and March by Environment Canterbury. A tributary that flows into the Waiau River upstream of the bridge is monitored for cyanobacteria only during the summer season.

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Waiau River at Waiau township Bridge and 8,000 other beaches.