Sewer spill caused by wet wipes and toilet brush

Taupō Main Beach was off-limits to swimming late last week after a sewage spill.

Wastewater entered Lake Taupō last week because of a blockage caused by wet wipes.

The Taupō District Council is urging people not to flush things like wet wipes down the toilet because they do not break down the same as toilet paper.

Rinsing fat off in the kitchen sink also causes problems and combined with wet wipes can cause what are known as ‘fatbergs’.

Last week’s blockage was the perfect storm with wet wipes getting caught on other items in the sewer, including a toilet brush.

Inspections of the pipes using cameras uncovered a second blockage which was quickly cleared.

People were advised not to swim on Taupō Main Beach near the water treatment plant at the end of last week, but the signs have now been removed.

“Water testing will be carried out over the next few days to confirm the water is safe by the water treatment plant.  If you don’t see signs, then you are good to go,” a council spokesperson says.

“Finally, shout out to the legends who reported this to us. If you see something that you think needs attention, give us a call on 07 376 0899. The faster we know, the faster we can get it sorted.”