Health Warnings – Okawa & Te Weta Bays

12 December 2022

Health warnings issued for Okawa & Te Weta Bays at Lake Rotoiti

A health warnings have been issued for Okawa & Te Weta bays at the western end of Lake Rotoiti. The health warnings are based on water test results and visual observations provided by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council which indicate an extensive algal bloom throughout these areas of the lake.

“People should avoid any activity which results in contact with the water in Okawa or Te Weta bays,” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health for Toi Te Ora Public Health.

Contact with water affected by blooms of blue-green algae can cause asthma and hay fever attacks in some individuals. Contact with the blue-green algae can also cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

Signage will be erected at sites along the shore of the bay advising potential lake users about the algal bloom.

As we head into summer Dr Miller advises the public to keep an eye out for signs of algal blooms if using lakes in our region. “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 floating 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.toiteora.govt.nz/health-warnings

. * More information: www.toiteora.govt.nz/public/recreational-water

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