The Wairau River at Spring Creek has long been a popular summer swimming area for Marlborough locals — a wide braided river with sandy banks and clear gravel-bed sections about 10 km west of Blenheim. The site is accessible from the Spring Creek village and draws families and swimmers looking for a natural river alternative to the coast. Note: the Ferry Bridge access point at Spring Creek is currently closed to swimming until at least June 2027 while stopbank repair works are under way. Check current access status before visiting.
Practical Information
| Location | Spring Creek, ~10 km west of Blenheim off SH6 |
|---|---|
| Access | Ferry Bridge access currently closed until June 2027 |
| Closure reason | Marlborough District Council stopbank repair works on the Wairau River |
| Lifeguards | None — unpatrolled river |
| Water quality | Monitored at Ferry Bridge site; check LAWA for current status |
| River character | Braided gravel river; depth varies; current present |
| Cost | Free |
About the River at Spring Creek
The Wairau River is one of Marlborough’s largest rivers, flowing east across the Wairau Plain from its sources in the Richmond and Spencer Ranges. By the time it reaches Spring Creek it has become a wide braided river — multiple channels crossing a broad gravel bed, with sandy banks forming on the inside curves of each bend.
The swimming area at Spring Creek has historically attracted families during summer, particularly around the Ferry Bridge on Peninsula Road. Sandy areas lead into the water where the river is deeper and slower flowing. The river bed is predominantly gravel with sandy pockets. The water is cold even in summer — sourced from mountain snowmelt — and depth can be deceptive.
Current Closure
As of late 2025, Marlborough District Council closed the Ferry Bridge swimming area until June 2027 to allow stopbank repair work on the Wairau River. The stopbanks were damaged in the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake and subsequent 2021 and 2022 floods. Large machinery operating on both sides of the river disturbs river silt and makes the area hazardous for swimming. The closure covers the Spring Creek/Ferry Bridge access area. Before visiting, check the Marlborough District Council website or the LAWA swim guide for current access status — the situation may change as works progress.
Water Quality
When open, water quality at the Ferry Bridge site is regularly monitored by MDC. For current E. coli readings and any active warnings, check LAWA (lawa.org.nz/swim) under the Wairau River at Ferry Bridge site. The standard advice applies: avoid swimming for two to three days after heavy rain, even at sites with generally good quality.
The Wairau River is a significant agricultural waterway and can carry elevated E. coli levels, particularly after rain when runoff from farms and roads enters the catchment. Checking LAWA before visiting is strongly recommended.
Where to learn more
- LAWA — Wairau River at Ferry Bridge — water quality monitoring, E. coli data and current swim status
- Marlborough District Council — current information on stopbank works and access
- Marlborough Online — Best swimming spots — overview of Marlborough’s rated swimming locations
FAQ
Is Spring Creek swimming area open?
Not currently. The Ferry Bridge access point at Spring Creek is closed until at least June 2027 while Marlborough District Council carries out stopbank repairs on the Wairau River.
When will it reopen?
The expected reopening is after June 2027, once the stopbank works are complete. Check MDC’s website for updates.
Is the Wairau River safe to swim in?
When monitored sites show acceptable E. coli levels, the river can be suitable for swimming. Always check LAWA before entering and avoid swimming for 2–3 days after rain.
Are there alternative swimming spots near Spring Creek?
Whites Bay (8km northeast of Blenheim) is the closest supervised beach. The Wairau River at the Blenheim Rowing Club off Maxwell Road is another option and is not affected by the current closure.
Is the river cold?
Yes — the Wairau is fed partly by mountain snowmelt and remains cold even in summer.
See the Swimming in Blenheim hub for all swimming options near the city. Whites Bay is the closest supervised beach, about 20 minutes from Blenheim.
