Swimming all-clear given at lakes

Health warnings on Lake Rotoiti and Lake Okaro have been lifted.

Tests have shown the level of cyanobacteria, also known as blue green algae, in the Rotorua lakes has dropped and they are now safe for recreational use and swimming.

However, regular testing will still be carried out.

Health officials say that, because conditions tend to be changeable during summer, people should look out for blooms when using the lakes.

If the water appears cloudy -- often pea green in colour -- with tiny floating globules, officials say it is better to avoid contact.

The two Rotorua lakes are the latest swimming spots in the Bay of Plenty -- including rivers, beaches and lakes -- to be given the all clear for swimming.

Environment Bay of Plenty staff tested 20 lake sites, 24 river sites and 35 beaches for the likely presence of bacteria and viruses, and were able to declare nearly all of them safe for swimming.

Only three failed the standard -- the Waimapu Stream at Tauranga's Greerton Park, plus Two Mile Creek and Three Mile Creek at Waihi Beach.

Mr Scholes said these sites carried health warnings for much of the year.

- DAILY POST (ROTORUA)