People are being asked to stay out of the water in Mount Maunganui.

The Mount Maugnanui Lifeguard Services has raised the 'no swimming' flag and is asking everyone please stay out of the water.

"It is not recommended that you swim or surf at the moment as there's a risk of becoming unwell," says a post on the lifeguard service's Facebook page.

"Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Bay of Plenty has issued a general health warning for ALL waterways, with the warning due to be reviewed February 7."

Up-to-date information on water quality in the Bay of Plenty can be found by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/bay-of-plenty-region/

"Our volunteer lifeguards are on patrol this weekend and will be roaming the beach. If you see anyone in trouble in the water, call 111 and ask for the Police.

"They'll ask our lifeguards or our emergency call out squads to respond."

Following recent heavy rain and flooding, many swim sports around New Zealand will have high or very high risk of contamination during and after heavy rain, says a post on the LAWA website.

"Do not swim for 2 - 3 days after heavy rain.

"Stay out of floodwater. Do not try to walk, play, swim, or drive in floodwater. Even water just 15 cm deep can sweep you off your feet, and half a metre of water will carry away most vehicles. Flood water is often contaminated and can make you sick."