A $1m payment to Mahurangi oyster farmers is only a start, says Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft, after sewage contamination hit livelihoods at peak harvest.

She said Watercare chief executive Jamie Sinclair yesterday announced an immediate $1m compensation payment to Aquaculture New Zealand for distribution to 10 oyster farmers affected by the latest overflow near Warkworth.

The spill followed a power surge that tripped pumps.

Marcroft welcomed the swift move but said repeated sewage overflows over several years have pushed farmers to the edge.

She urged Watercare to work with Aquaculture New Zealand to fully compensate those who have suffered ongoing financial hits and personal strain.

Marcroft also warned the public should be concerned about polluted waterways.

“The sea is our food basket and our playground. No sewage should ever be flowing into it,” Jenny Marcroft said.

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