Timaru residents are being warned to avoid swimming in Caroline Bay

The Canterbury District Health Board has issued a health warning, after high levels of faecal bacteria were found in consecutive water samples.

Medical Officer of Health, doctor Alistair Humphrey, says people need to veto recreational activities at Caroline Bay, because of the health risks.

He says shellfish shouldn't be eaten, and fish need to be washed in clean water, and the liver and gut removed.