A build-up of baby wipes has blocked a sewer and caused an overflow into the Waikareao Estuary near the intersection of Waihi Road and Churchill Road today.

The ‘medium level' overflow affects the Kopuererua Stream and the Waikareao Estuary, says council communications advisor Marcel Currin.

The blockage of baby wipes has now been cleared but health warning signs have been installed around the Kopurererua Stream and along the walkway at that Waihi Road end of the estuary.

'Subject to water quality test results we expect the signs to be removed by Tuesday, August 12,” says Marcel.

'An accompanying message here is, please don't flush baby wipes or towelettes down the toilet.”