Stream that smelled like 'beer' discovered to be alcoholic

A stream in Hawaii that smelled like beer has been found to be alcoholic, following a spill from a nearby drinks warehouse.

The waterway, in Waipio, was found to have been contaminated by runoff from a storm drain, Hawaii News Now reported.

The runoff included a spill from a warehouse owned by Paradise Beverages, a liquor manufacturer, according to government authorities.

LIVE UPDATES: Fresh new freedoms for Victorians

"The other day we came here you would think it was a beer pub that hadn't opened its doors for three or four days," environmental activist Carroll Cox said.

Interestingly, Hawaii News Now took it on themselves to have some of the water tested for its alcohol content.

Taking it to independent organisation FQ Labs, they found that it measured at 1.2 per cent alcohol.

READ MORE: Expert's warning on William Tyrrell search

READ MORE: Discoloured ceiling in unit leads to major health issue

While that may not be a huge amount - light beer typically contains up to 2.7 per cent alcohol and a hearty XXXX Gold mid-strength will include 3.5 per cent alcohol - it's probably still a heady draught for local wildlife.

Paradise Beverages told Hawaii News Now they were working with the proper authorities to determine the cause of the pollution.

The storm drain is no longer carrying the tainted runoff.