Last updated June 2026
The Wairau River at Ferry Bridge on Peninsula Road near Spring Creek is a popular Marlborough swimming spot featuring a wide gravel-bed river with sandy banks and steady flow roughly 10 km west of Blenheim. The site is currently closed to swimming until at least June 2027 while Marlborough District Council completes major stopbank repair works. These works provide essential flood protection for the Spring Creek community but create hazards from machinery and disturbed silt during construction. Always confirm the latest status on official council channels before visiting.
Practical Information
| Location | Ferry Bridge, Peninsula Road, Spring Creek — 10 km west of Blenheim |
| Current status | Closed to swimming until at least June 2027 |
| Closure reason | MDC stopbank repair works; machinery disturbing river silt |
| Normal access | Roadside parking off Peninsula Road at Ferry Bridge |
| Lifeguards | None — unpatrolled site |
| Water quality | Monitored at this site in season; check LAWA |
| River character | Wide braided river; deep sections; strong current possible |
| Cost | Free |
About the Wairau River at Ferry Bridge
Ferry Bridge takes its name from the flat-bottomed ferry that once crossed the Wairau River here before a bridge was built. The site on Peninsula Road has long served as a popular access point to the river, with gentle banks, small sandy areas at the water’s edge, and open space on the wide gravel riverbed.
When open, the water is characteristically cold as the Wairau is a major braided river fed from alpine sources. The sandy sections attract swimmers, yet the main channel reaches significant depth and the site is unsuitable for non-swimmers or young children without close supervision. The river remains unpatrolled at all times.
The Current Closure
In late 2025 Marlborough District Council closed the Ferry Bridge swimming area until at least June 2027 to allow urgent repair of stopbanks along Peninsula Road near Spring Creek. The stopbanks sustained damage in the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake and were further affected by floods in 2021 and 2022. Large machinery operating on both sides of the river and ongoing silt disturbance have rendered the area hazardous for public use during the project.
The repairs protect the Spring Creek community from flooding in high-flow events. Council has indicated it may consider temporary access if safe windows arise, but no firm reopening date before June 2027 has been confirmed.
Water Quality (When Open)
The Ferry Bridge site is one of Marlborough’s officially monitored swimming locations. When open, E. coli levels are tested regularly during summer. For current water quality data consult LAWA under the Wairau River at Ferry Bridge listing. Standard river advice applies: avoid swimming for 2–3 days after heavy rain.
Where to Learn More
LAWA — Wairau River at Ferry Bridge: water quality data and current site status.
Marlborough District Council: stopbank works updates and access information.
Marlborough District Council Recreational Water Quality: monitored swimming sites and seasonal reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ferry Bridge swimming area open?
No — the site is closed to swimming until at least June 2027 due to MDC stopbank repair works on the Wairau River.
Why is it closed?
Large machinery carrying out flood protection works is disturbing silt throughout the river in this section, making the area unsafe for swimming. The stopbanks being repaired protect Spring Creek from flooding.
When will it reopen?
The expected closure runs until June 2027. Check the MDC website for updates — temporary reopening windows may occur if conditions allow.
Are there alternative swimming spots nearby?
Whites Bay is the closest managed beach. The Wairau River at the Blenheim Rowing Club (Maxwell Road) is another monitored river site and remains unaffected by this closure.
Is this the same as Spring Creek swimming?
Yes — Ferry Bridge on Peninsula Road is the main access point to the Wairau River at Spring Creek.
Is the site suitable for children?
The river has deep sections and strong currents in places; close supervision is essential and it is not recommended for non-swimmers or young children.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are generally permitted at the site when open, but must remain under control and owners should follow any signage.
How is water quality monitored?
Marlborough District Council tests E. coli levels regularly during the summer season at this LAWA-listed site.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
