Lake Okaro health warning lifted

Lake Okaro. FILE

The algal bloom health warning issued for Lake Okaro in December has now been lifted.

Medical Officer of Health, Dr Phil Shoemack said results of water testing by Bay of Plenty Regional Council confirmed that the levels of blue-green algae in Lake Okaro had subsided.

Despite Lake Okaro now being within safe levels, Dr Shoemack would like to remind the public that the health warning for Lake Rotoehu, issued February 16, remains in place.

"The health warning for Lake Rotoehu means that people should avoid any activity which results in significant contact with the lake water."

Latest sampling also shows some algal bloom activity in Lake Rotorua and Lake Rotoiti.

While it has not yet reached health warning levels Dr Shoemack advises the public to take care and use a precautionary approach.

"Always be vigilant and look for signs of algal blooms if using any of the lakes around Rotorua. Algal blooms can develop rapidly and unpredictably and can sometimes produce toxins that are harmful for people as well as animals. If the water looks discoloured, has an unusual smell, or has green or brown particles suspended in it then it is best to avoid contact with it."

Up-to-date information on health warnings for the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts is available through these channels:

Phone: 0800 221 555
Website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ttophs
Email alerts for subscribers: www.ttophs.govt.nz/alert