Effluent discharge leaves Waikato stream green and contaminated

A Waikato stream has been left green and contaminated after effluent appears to have been illegally dumped into it, and the team who uncovered it say they are appalled.

The Waikato Regional Council is investigating the circumstances of what led the stream to be filled with effluent and believe one of the discharges appeared to be ongoing and deliberate.

A pipe was in place which allegedly discharged the effluent to the stream.

Waikato Regional Council investigations manager Patrick Lynch said it was extremely concerning and that he was grateful to the member of the council who tipped them off.

A sample is taken at the point where the pipe joins the stream. Photo / WRC, YouTube

"This person had noted that a stream, that normally runs clear, was running green over several days particularly early in the morning."

The council staff went to the site on Friday morning and observed the pollution in the stream and were able to track it back some distance to its source.

"However, what we found on this occasion is of real concern. We have many farmers doing the right thing by the environment in our region but unfortunately there are still some in the sector who, quite simply, don't seem to care."

The council was now carrying out a formal investigation, but anticipated enforcement action would be taken.