By RNZ Wellington’s south coast beaches have been rated as unsuitable for swimming two days after the city’s mayor went for a swim in Lyall Bay to show it was safe. The area had been off-limits to beachgoers since February 4 after the Moa Point sewage plant completely failed, sending tens of millions of litres of raw sewage into Cook Strait each day since. On Wednesday, it was announced the beaches could reopen, with Wellington Mayor Andrew Little taking a dip in front of media. The Land Air Water Aotearoa (Lawa) website has listed much of the south coast as being unsuitable for swimming, as well the bulk of the inner harbour, including Oriental Bay. Much of the Miramar Peninsula is designated as “caution advised” for swimming. Wellington Mayor Andrew Little (left) swims in Lyall Bay after announcing the lifting of a swimming ban. Photo / Mark Papalii, RNZ There was rain in Wellington overnight. It was common practice for Lawa to suggest people not to swim in areas near rural or urban land for two to three days after prolonged rain. Little said at the announcement he advised residents to check the website before swimming and follow the advice on it. “I do want to be clear: a risk remains, but monitoring results so far show that it is low and it is now up to people to decide how they respond to the current information.” Little has been contacted for comment. – RNZ