Foodstuffs and Woolworths have told chrislynchmedia.com they are working to get additional bottled water supplies into Christchurch supermarkets, following the boil water notice affecting the city’s eastern suburbs.

A public health text message was sent out to people living in New Brighton, Burwood, Wainoni, Aranui and Southshore on Saturday afternoon.

Water, including filtered water, needs to be continuously boiled for at least one minute, although jugs with an automatic cut-off switch can be used, as long as they are full.

The boil water notice was issued after routine water sampling detected bacteria in one sample taken in the eastern city water supply zone.

Foodstuffs, which owns Pak’nSave and New World, said several Christchurch stores had seen increased demand.

Head of External Communications Stefan Herrick said “while supply remains available across our network, a small number of stores have temporarily sold out of certain lines.

“Our teams are working closely with suppliers and moving stock as quickly as possible to replenish shelves.”

Mr Herrick said “individual stores may place temporary limits on purchases if needed to help ensure there is enough for everyone.

“We encourage customers to buy only what they reasonably need so supply can be shared across the community. Our teams are continuing to monitor demand closely and respond as required.”

A Woolworths New Zealand spokesman told chrislynchmedia.com the company had seen heavy sales of bottled water at New Brighton and nearby stores.

“We are working to rush in more supplies as soon as possible.”

The boil water notice remains in place until further notice while additional testing is carried out.

Christchurch City Council Head of Three Waters Gavin Hutchison told chrislynchmedia.com testing in the area showed the presence of bacteria in drinking water, which meant it was unsafe to drink.

All water used for drinking, food preparation, utensil washing, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled until further notice.

Additional text alerts will be received by people travelling into affected areas, the council said.