Toxic algal mats pose potential danger in parts of Hutt River

	click on icon to view high risk sign

People should avoid contact with the Hutt River around Silverstream, Ewan Bridge and the Kennedy Good Bridge due to extensive growth of toxic algal mats in these areas, Greater Wellington and Regional Public Health warned today.

Local councils have posted high risk warning signs in the affected areas, advising people to avoid contact recreation and dog walking.

Continuing warm and dry weather combined with low river flows has caused the mats to proliferate in these areas and they have come loose from the river bed and washed up on the river's edge where they are easily accessible to dogs, stock and recreational users.

Toxic algae is also present in other areas of the Hutt River from Birchville downstream and in the lower reaches of the Mangaroa, Akatarawa and Waikanae rivers and medium risk signs remain in place in these areas.

Other rivers in the Wellington and in the Wairarapa may also have areas with algal mats in places. Council staff will continue to monitor the situation and website alerts and warning signs will be posted when appropriate.

Regional Public Health advises everyone to avoid contact with toxic algae in rivers or on rivers edges and banks

Contact (skin contact, swallowing) can cause rashes, skin and eye irritation, allergic reactions, gastrointestinal upset, and other effects in humans. . The toxins can be fatal to dogs and they are particularly at risk because they like to scavenge near water.

If any person or animal in your care exhibits signs of illness after being near the river/s, contact your doctor or vet immediately.

For up-to-date information and warnings, visit www.gw.govt.nz/toxic-algae. If you see any toxic algal mats, contact Greater Wellington (04 384 5708) or an environmental health officer at your local council.