High toxin levels at Bay of Islands
The entire Bay of Islands is off limits again for collecting shellfish because high of toxin levels. The health warning extends to the outer heads between Cape Wiwiki to Cape Brett and all tidal areas within the bay. Routine tests on shellfish samples show levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins above the safe limit of 0.8mg/kg set by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). Mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles, scallops, catseyes, kina and other bivalve shellfish should not be eaten. Pāua, crab and crayfish can be eaten if the gut has been removed before cooking. Anyone who feels sick after eating shellfish should phone Healthline on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention immediately.
Animal education needed
Animal advocates are calling for humane treatment of animals to be taught in schools following the alleged involvement of Northland teenagers involvement in the shooting of a seal. Animal advocate group SAFE said the shooting of a protected leopard seal near Dargaville showed a desperate need for compulsory animal education in schools.
The animal was fatally shot in the head at Glinks Gully Beach two weeks ago. The police have referred four teenagers, two aged 15 and two 16, to the Youth Aid section in relation to the attack. SAFE spokesperson Hans Kriek said it is unacceptable to have teenagers in society who think shooting seals is fun. SAFE's education programme, Animals & Us, has promoted and fostered compassionate and respectful attitudes towards animals for over a decade.
Clean up planned
