Sewage pollution signs ignored by Queenstown holiday crowds

Hundreds of locals and tourists crowded onto Queenstown's Frankton beach today (January 2 - main image above) apparently unaware of water pollution signs that have been erected only a short distance further down the lakefront.

The warning signs have appeared below busy apartments on the Frankton Road.

There are signs, and very strong smells, of current sewage pipe work below one apartment complex but no workers were on site.

Sewage repair works currently in progress (with no workers) on the Frankton track. (January 2). The smell was disgusting.

There is also what appears to be a temporary pipe laid along a section of the crowded Frankton track.

Pipes along the Frankton track this afternoon - January 2

Nothing on the Queenstown Lakes District Council website or social media channels provides any notification about the water pollution or the cause.

Crux has contacted the QLDC and ORC comms teams and is waiting for a reply.

Signs have been erected along the Frankton Arm lakefront below what appear to be sewage repair works

The Otago Regional Council has recently notified Lake Hāwea residents of the need to avoid swimming there due to water pollution with no further testing due until monday.