Environment Canterbury is continuing to respond to factory wastewater spill at Saltwater Creek in North Canterbury.

Staff are assessing the impact of the and an investigation is underway.

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 One.

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.

Those who know people who could be heading to the creek or estuary over the weekend, such as for whitebaiting, are asked to share this message.

If you see affected wildlife, do not touch it – call 0800 765 588.