31 August 2016

Hay fever hits early – it’s nature doing its thing

Wellingtonians are grabbing their tissues as hay fever season kicks off early this year due to the mild winter and early signs of spring.

Reports increase in spring of a yellow powder or paint residue lining streams and puddles and coating people’s cars. Already reports have started coming in from across the region - from Paraparaumu to Seatoun to Wellington Harbour and the Hutt River.

“People mistakenly think pollen deposits are pollution every year at the start of spring. But we’d rather have observant people and a few cases of mistaken identity than not hear from people when they think there might be a problem.” says Council’s Manager Environment Regulation Alistair Cross.

The yellow sludge you see on top of the water or lining the shores could well be a sign our plants are feeling a spring in the air.

Wind pollination is the choice of many plants in New Zealand including pines and most grasses. These plants produce enormous quantities of light, dry pollen grains that can be carried on the wind and we know the wind in Wellington gets up during spring as well.

Only a small amount of this pollen hits the spot on plants. The majority goes to waste and this is what can be seen forming gloopy clumps and foamy slime around water or the fine yellow dust you might be seeing on your clean car or laundry. It can be alarming but it’s perfectly normal.

If you’re in doubt call our Environment Hotline 0800 496 734. It’s a confidential 24 hour service. Your contact details will be requested so staff can gather more information if needed.

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