Current environmental incidents
We respond to a variety of environmental incidents in the region that affect our air, water and land. Here you can find the latest serious environmental incident alerts.
This page covers alerts for unexpected or urgent incidents involving discharges to land, air, and water, where we need the public to avoid a particular area. Here's how you can report an environmental incident.
If you are looking for warnings related to toxic cyanobacteria or faecal contamination at recreational water sites, see our health warnings.
Contaminated debris at Pigeon Bay
Incident date: Early April 2026
Last updated: 1pm, 1 May 2026
We’re responding to asbestos‑containing material (ACM) that has been identified on Pigeon Bay beach. Initial investigations suggest the material is likely coming from a historic, land‑based landfill that has become exposed over time due to coastal erosion.
Christchurch City Council contractors are scheduled to clear contaminated debris from the site from Monday 11 May 2026. Until this work is completed, temporary signage will remain in place and we’re asking people to take care when visiting the area.
- Please don’t touch, walk on or disturb any ACM on the beach
- Take extra care at low tide, when material may be exposed
- Follow any on‑site signage and advice
If you have concerns or notice debris in the area, please contact our Advisory Team on 0800 324 636.