Opawa at Malthouse Reserve
By the time the Opawa River reaches this site it has been through the centre of Blenheim and is again flowing through the countryside. This site is just out of Blenheim off State Highway 1, opposite the Cob Cottage. There is a large grassed picnic and parking area that is shaded by walnut trees. There are whitebaiting "possies," and a boat launching ramp giving access to the river.
The average rainfall is 600mm per year. Water quality is frequently poor at this site and septic tanks have recently been identified as the possible source of pollution. Because of this, the site has been sign-posted advising the public of the risk of swimming in the area. Sign posts will be removed once the problem of septic tank discharges has been put right.
Suitability for Recreation Grade (SFRG)
Poor
Graph of Recreational Monitoring Results
Summer 2010-11
Summer 2009-10
