The Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning toxin warning has now been removed from Waihi Beach northwards following ongoing monitoring.

However, the current warning remains in place from Waihi Beach to the northern end of Pukehina.

People are being warned not to gather shellfish from Waihi Beach, along the Bay of Plenty coast to Rogers Road, Pukehina. Photo: File.

People are being warned not to gather shellfish from Waihi Beach, along the Bay of Plenty coast to Rogers Road, Pukehina.

Medical Officer of Health Richard Wall advises against gathering or eating shellfish from Waihi Beach, along the Bay of Plenty coast to Rogers Road, Pukehina.

The warning includes Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti Islands, and all other islands along this coastline.

The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters and scallops as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin).

Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed.

Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but, as always, the gut should be removed before cooking.

Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities, difficulty swallowing or breathing, dizziness, double vision, and, in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure.

These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention.

Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly. Up-to-date information on the toxic shellfish health warning can be found by calling: 0800 800 977 (Waikato) or 0800 221 555 (Bay of Plenty) or visit: www.waikatodhbnewsroom.co.nz

Signage at locations will also indicate shellfish health warnings at affected beaches.