New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has ordered an investigation into the gastro outbreak in the town of Havelock North on the north island.  Thousands of people have been made ill, schools are closed, and businesses are considering class action lawsuits because a bug got into the town's water.

"It is far too early to point fingers but we have to find out what to took place," Mr. Key told reporters.

Health officials say campylobacter bacteria is the culprit, possibly from some sort of animal feces getting into the water supply.  People started showing up at doctors' offices last week with the classic symptoms of campylobacteriosis, including diarrhea and vomiting.  This bacteria is a genuine threat to people with compromised immune systems, such as AIDS or cancer patients; some 20 people are hospitalized, two in a critical condition.  In all, more than 3,000 people have been made sick.

Chlorination of the water supply began on Friday, and a boil order remains in effect.  High schools will attempt to open tomorrow, but primary and middle schools will remain shut.

Restaurants are appealing to the district mayor and council for financial assistance, as business has dropped to zero and many have been forced to temporarily close.  With tens of thousands of dollars staying outside the doors, some are considering a class action suit.

"Depends whose fault it is really, whether the foreseeability and the cause," said Pipi Cafe owner Chris Morris to Radio New Zealand.  "The council definitely have a duty of care, it's just a matter of whether it's their fault," he added.