A water mains failure on Dive Crescent has caused discolouration of water to homes and businesses on the Te Papa Peninsula.

This includes homes in Greerton, the Cameron Road area, the Avenues and parts of Bureta.

"The discolouration of water is caused from naturally-occurring iron and manganese that deposits on the inside of the pipes and gets disturbed by the flow during a major break," says a Tauranga City Council spokesperson.

"Our contractors are repairing the failure and the water is safe to drink but it may take some time for the discoloured water to work through the system."

Tauranga City Council will provide another update on Tuesday and appreciates the community's patience.