24 December 2014

Toxic algae in Waipoua River

Toxic algae has been found in parts of the Waipoua River, near Masterton, prompting authorities to warn dog owners to keep their dogs on the lead and people to take care.

Monitoring of the Waipoua River at Colombo Road by the Wellington Regional Council shows that clumps of the brown or black toxic algal mats are washing up on the river’s edge. If ingested it can kill livestock and dogs and contact can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and skin irritations in humans.

“Despite some recent rain, temperatures are warming up and toxic algae are growing in the Waipoua River. Clumps of the potentially toxic mats are washing up onto the river’s edge,” says Regional Council Environmental Science Team Leader Juliet Milne.

Masterton District Council has posted toxic algae information signs at key access points along the river. Monitoring of Wellington waterways and coastal areas is carried out by Greater Wellington Regional Council, Regional Public Health and local authorities on a weekly basis over the summer months. Results of the monitoring are posted www.gw.govt.nz/summer-check.

Other information about toxic algae, including a guide of what to look for and what to do if you are worried about possible contact with toxic algae can be found at www.gw.govt.nz/toxic-algae-faqs.

ENDS

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