The wastewater is a product of processing of timber, and is toxic to fish and other aquatic life.
Environment Canterbury staff are continuing to investigate, and assess the impact of the spill, which is believed to have come from a large factory, east of Ashley.
The spill has stopped, but it has affected the waterway from the Beatties Road end, through to the estuary on the upper side of State Highway 1.
Several signs have been put up warning the public to stay away from the water and to keep animals away.
Water tests are being carried out.
Staff from various agencies are on the ground alerting the public, including whitebaiters.
Fish, including bullies and tuna/eels, are affected. It’s important that people do not fish, whitebait or harvest mahinga kai in the area, ECan says.
Those who know people who could be heading to the creek or estuary over the weekend, such as for whitebaiting, are urged to share the news.
Anyone seeing affected wildlife, should not touch it. Instead phone 0800 765 588.
- By Robyn Bristow
