January 12, 2005
Suspected algal bloom problem at Quarry Lake
North Shore City Council is advising people not to use the Quarry Lake next to Lake Pupuke because of a suspected algal
bloom problem.
Public health warning signs have been erected around the lake area after the council's pollution prevention officers
were notified of a water discolouration.
The cause is thought to be the New Zealand variety of blue-green algae, which can be toxic to humans, says the council's
environmental programmes co-ordinator, Trish Kirkland-Smith.
Water tests are being carried out to confirm the type of algae, and the signs will remain in place until the water
quality is shown to be within health guidelines.
Algal blooms are a naturally occurring event that can be triggered by short bursts of warm weather, but are also
affected by other factors such as the amount of nutrients in the water.
There is no way to prevent or stop algal blooms. Last year there was a similar problem at the lake, which lasted for
approximately four months.
"There is no sign that the bloom has affected Lake Pupuke," says Ms Kirkland-Smith. Testing shows it to be currently
safe to use.
Samples from recreational water areas are taken weekly over summer as part of a programme involving the local and
regional councils and public health service.
People should contact North Shore City Council on 486 8600 for general information on bathing water quality, and any
health concerns.
0800SAFESWIM (0800 723 379) has information on bathing water quality for Auckland City, North Shore City and Rodney
District beaches. Test results and advice can also be found on the North Shore City website at
www.northshorecity.govt.nz.
ENDS