Several lakes and rivers in South Canterbury have become swimmable for the first time in years.

Figures from Environment Canterbury’s annual freshwater quality report show 12 of the 52 sites monitored have improved.

However, just under a quarter remain unswimmable.

Chief scientist Tim Davie says of those sites that have improved, Lake Aviemore and the Waihi Gorge in South Canterbury, can now be used for recreation for the first time in several years.

For others, it’s been closer to a decade.

"Don's Hole on the Waihao has moved into the fair category. That, I know, has been a long time since it has been in a swimmable state. And that's had a lot of attention."

Four of the 52 sites have declined in quality, which are Hurunui at SH7, one site at Lake Hood, Ashley River near Rangiora and the Temuka River. 

The previous Government set a target of 2040 to get 90 per cent of rivers and lakes swimmable.

The new Government aims to have the country's waterways swimmable 'within a generation'.