Timaru has been given the unhealthy title of having the ‘worst level of air pollution’ in Oceania, according to new statistics.

Figures released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) show the small Kiwi town contains more particles than the safety recommendation for air pollution.

Annual levels of PM10 particles and PM2.5 particles are used to measure air quality – these are so small that they can get into the lungs, potentially causing serious health problems.

Timaru has worst air pollution in Australasia, according to new WHO figures.https://t.co/80st4Y7QzS pic.twitter.com/27QGshju8V

— Stuff.co.nz News (@NZStuff) May 17, 2016

Timaru had a PM2.5 annual mean level of 15 micrograms per cubic metre, and a PM10 level of 28 micrograms per cubic metre.

The WHO guidelines state that levels of 10 and 20 micrograms per cubic metre respectively are considered safe.

Christchurch was the worst of New Zealand’s major cities, while Wellington and Auckland’s air was found to be much cleaner.

– NZME