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Thursday, November 15, 2018

UPDATE 6 December 2018 - Kaupokonui River mouth is open after further testing. Signs have now been taken down.

15 November 2018 -

Due to moderate levels of Benthic Cyanobacteria, the mouth of the Kaupokonui River is closed to all users until further notice and warning signs have been erected.

South Taranaki District Council environmental health officer, Chantelle Denton says Cyanobacteria is a naturally occurring algae capable of producing toxins, most commonly causing skin and eye irritation. However some of the toxins could potentially cause sore throats, asthma, paralysis and vomiting or diarrhea.

“Visitors to the river mouth should not collect or eat fish and plant life or come into contact with the water,” says Mrs Denton.

“Keep your pets away from the water too as they can also be affected,” she says. "Dogs in particular seem to enjoy eating the algal growths and this has caused several deaths of dogs in New Zealand."

“Any visitors to the area showing these symptoms should consult their doctor immediately or contact the Taranaki District Health Board Public Health Unit on 06 753 7798 for further information,” says Mrs Denton. Any other questions can be directed to the STDC Environmental Health Team on 0800 111 323.

Further tests will be taken throughout the swimming season and the warning signs will be removed when the levels are considered safe.