Whanganui at Cobham Pontoons
This popular recreational area is found along the eastern side of Whanganui upstream of the Town Bridge. It is used more for boating and fishing than swimming. You will see jet skis, power boats, rowing skiffs, kayaks and sailing boats out on the river. There are numerous access points to the river along the walkway including the pontoon and jetty out from Moutoa Quay. The walkway is a popular fishing spot for young and old alike.
Is it safe for swimming?
Water quality at Cobham Pontoons is graded fair for swimming. This means it is generally safe for swimming, except during and after recent rainfall and river freshes.
Rain washes bacteria and sediment off streets, roads, plants and land into water which increase health-risk and makes it look murky. Although boating should remain safe, it is best to wait for three or four days of fine weather before swimming.
What is Horizons doing to improve the River?
Rivers have a range of things that need to be balanced to keep the water clean so its fish and plant life can survive and we can enjoy these special spots.
Horizons works to improve water quality by:
• Helping to fence off rivers and streams so stock do not get into water and contaminate it
• Helping rural land users to stop soil eroding from hills and into water
• Ensuring waste that has to go into water is properly treated to meet water quality standards
• Monitoring water that is taken out of the river so there is enough for everyone, including the fish
Our River's future
While you can enjoy the Whanganui River this summer, work needs to be done to make sure future generations will be able to swim in it too. Horizons will do this by continuing to support work that reduces the sources of sediment and bacteria getting into the river. The Whanganui Catchment Strategy is a good example of this.