MEDIA RELEASE 23 March 2009

Health warning issued for Lake Rotorua

A health warning has been issued for the northern side of Lake Rotorua today as routine water test results provided by Environment Bay of Plenty confirms a bloom of toxic algae (also known as blue-green algae and cyanobacteria). Blooms have been detected at Ngongataha, Haumaurana and the Ohau Channel.

“The health warning means people should avoid any activity which results in significant contact with the water,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller. “Toxic algae has the potential to release toxins, which can affect health by aggravating hayfever and asthma, causing skin rashes and damage to the nervous system.”

Environment Bay of Plenty checks weekly for signs of the blue-green algae (the micro-organism that causes the bloom) in the main lakes during summer and people will be advised of any changes in water quality that are of public health significance.

“As we have many recreational waters in the area, the sampling points are limited. Blooms can also occur quite quickly in the right conditions, so it is always safest to check the water before you get in,” says Dr Jim Miller. “Look before you leap; if the water looks discoloured, smells unusual, or if there is scum on the surface of lakes or on the beds of rivers, swim or play somewhere else.”

Rotorua District Council is erecting signs at Lake Rotorua advising potential lake users of the algal bloom.

Check the status of water quality throughout the area covered by Environment Bay of Plenty at http://www.envbop.govt.nz/Water/Water.asp

ENDS

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