Beach warnings still in place

A public health warning arising from the mysterious deaths of dogs and marine life in Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf remains in place today.

Two dogs have died after visiting beaches on Auckland's North Shore over the past month, while deaths have also been reported of hundreds of fish, some penguins and five dolphins.

Auckland Regional Public Health Service (Arphs) today said it was coordinating with Auckland Regional Council over the test results and updating information.

"Until we hear otherwise, the health warning is still standing," said Sally Young, Arphs communications manager.

There was also a risk to the public for the Hauraki Gulf and Great Barrier Island, 90km from downtown Auckland, until test results were received.

In the meantime, people in the area should avoid contact with sea water and sea life.

They should also avoid taking children to beaches or exercising pets there.

The service also advised against collecting or eating fish and shellfish from the area, and urged that fishing, swimming and diving activity should cease.

It said it was continuing to work with local and regional councils and government agencies to try to establish the cause of the deaths.

A North Shore City Council spokeswoman said results of tests in relation to the dog that died after visiting Cheltenham Beach last week were expected this week.

- NZPA