Red alert toxic algae warning at Poets Park and Silverstream

Greater Wellington Regional Council has issued a red alert toxic algae warning for the Hutt River at Poets Park and Silverstream. This warning is based on assessments done yesterday.

Significant amounts of toxic algae are currently washing up on the river’s edge at these sites and it is unsafe for swimming. They recommend river users keep their dogs away from the river in these areas.

How to spot toxic algae
You can spot toxic algae by looking out for brown or black clumps of algae at the river’s edge or in parts of the river where rocks are exposed or it’s shallow.
If a dog eats toxic algae, it can die very quickly. Protect your dog by putting it on a lead and keeping away from the riverside if you see a warning sign or think you see toxic algae. If you think your dog has eaten toxic algae, take it to a vet immediately.

In humans, contact with toxic algae can cause rashes, skin and eye irritation, allergic reactions and gastric upsets. If you think you’re having a reaction to toxic algae, contact your GP.

All the latest warnings and river advice are also updated on Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Summer Check website: http://www.gw.govt.nz/summer-check

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