Lake warning reminder - avoid contact with water
The local Medical Officer of Health is urging people and their pets to avoid activity which results in contact with waterways at various locations around the district.
Recent testing has shown elevated levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria) particularly at:
- Reeme Street in Ngongotahā,
- Ōhau Channel
Health warnings are already in place for these areas and the locations below:
- Ōkere Arm
- Upper reaches of the Kaituna River.
- All of Lake Rotorua
- Lake Rotoehu
It is advised that any activity (for humans and pets) which involves water in these areas should be avoided until further notice.
NOTE: If your household draws water from any of the waterways listed above please use an alternative water source until further notice.
Exposure to high levels of toxins from Cyanobacteria may result in serious illness or death in humans and pets. The effect of Cyanotoxins varies from rapid onset of nausea and diarrhea to, in extreme cases, more serious effects such as liver damage.
If you have come into contact with affected water and have concerns about your health, please contact your GP or Healthline on 0800 611 116. In an emergency call 111.
Cyanobacteria can look like murky or cloudy water with a green colour, giving a ‘pea-soup’ appearance. However, in areas where water is flowing such as the Ōhau Channel, the algae may become dispersed and will not look like a typical algae form. It is important to avoid all water in the areas mentioned above even if the water looks clear.
Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring and live in a range of waterways, from near-pristine to those more impacted by land-use. The levels of Cyanobacteria can change quickly so it is important to check health warnings, nearby signage and any visible signs of blue-green algae before coming into contact with the water.
Animals can be particularly sensitive to Cyanobacteria toxins and can become quite ill, quickly. It is important to keep animals out of the water when walking near the affected areas.
Further information
- Exposure to Cyanobacteria can also cause skin rashes, eye irritation, cough/sore throat, breathing problems, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, visual problems and aggravated hay fever and asthma.
- It is important that pets avoid contact with affected water. If you suspect your pet has come into contact with affected water please visit your vet.
- Do not take or consume trout that are found dead.
- Ensure that trout caught in the affected areas are thoroughly gutted and rinsed in clean tap water before eating.
- Do not eat shellfish or kōura from affected areas.
- Water activities including riverside fishing and duck shooting – it is advised to err on the side of caution until further notice
Warning signage is in place at public spaces around the affected areas.
Water sampling will continue on a weekly basis and further updates will be shared on the following channels:
For further updates please check www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/swimming or call Toi Te Ora Public Health on 0800 221 555