Current warnings

River warnings   (Updated 2 February 2012)

There is currently a moderate risk to river users from potentially toxic cyanobacteria in the Hutt River at Poets Park and Silverstream.  Moderate growth of cyanobacteria mats has been recorded in these areas and detached mats are starting to wash up on the rivers edge.  River users, particularly those with dogs, should avoid contact with algal mats in these river reaches.  In other parts of the Hutt River only low coverage of cyanobacteria has been recorded.  However, river users should keep a look out for cyanobacteria mats and avoid contact with them if present.

In the Waipoua River at Colombo Rd only low cyanobacteria cover is present.  However, the presence of some detached mats poses a moderate risk to rivers users in this area.

In the Waikanae River cover of cyanobacteria is low (<10%).  However, river users should keep a look out for cyanobacteria mats and avoid contact with them if present.

Local councils have posted signs at key access points along these rivers to warn people of the risk.

 Lake warnings

A health warning has been issued for Henley Lake in Masterton due to a cyanobacteria bloom.  More information can be found at http://www.mstn.govt.nz/events/latest/news-item.php?id=ln0202

General advice from health agencies

Rivers users, particularly those with dogs, or those drawing water from the river for stock/human consumption, should be on the look out for exposed or easily accessible algal mats (usually dark green/black in colour) both on the riverbanks and/or ‘floating’ on the surface of shallow areas and rocks in the rivers, and avoid any contact with them.

Click here for further information on toxic algae

Click here for information on river flows