MEDIA RELEASE
7 January 2013
Caution urged after weed spray spill
The public is being warned to be very cautious about using water from the Taiari Stream and the Ohinemuri River near
Waikino for the time being.
The warning comes after up to 3000 litres of diluted weed spray, thought to contain glyphosate, was spilled into the
Taiari Stream this morning.
Waikato Regional Council is starting to assess the environmental impacts of the spill and has advised health authorities
so they can provide appropriate health advice to the public.
“In the meantime, we’re urging people to be very cautious about using water from these waterways until the situation is
clearer,” said council compliance and education manager Rob Dragten.
The spray spill came after a spray contractor’s truck left the road near the corner of Waitawheta and Kennedy roads at
Waikino. The diluted weed spray then leaked into the Taiari Stream, which leads to the Ohinemuri River.
“The local Hauraki District Council has been advised and they have confirmed there are no risks to their public water
supplies from the spill,” said Mr Dragten.
“We’re seeking detailed information on the potential effects of this spray in waterways so we can better assess the
likely environmental impacts and what action is needed.”
ENDS