Power cut causes sewage spill along Wellington's south coast

Raw sewage has likely travelled along Wellington's south coast on Thursday, due to a power cut near Moa Point wastewater treatment plant.

Tiaki Wai confirmed untreated sewage was spilled into Tarakena Bay between 10.30-11am, but has since stopped.

A spokesperson said a temporary power cut at Wellington City Council's sludge minimisation facility affected the pumps lifting wastewater up the hill to the Moa Point plant.

He said signs were in place along the coastline to alert people to the spill.

The spokesperson said health advice was to avoid swimming, surfing or kayaking in the area from Ōwhiro Bay to Breaker Bay for 72 hours after the shortfall had stopped discharging.