The Ministry for Primary Industries has today lifted the health warning advising the public not to collect or consume shellfish in the Bay of Plenty region due to marine biotoxins from toxic algae.

Following extensive sampling of shellfish along this coastline, test results now show that shellfish are now safe to consume.

The shellfish warning in the Bay of Plenty has been lifted today.

'Warning signs will be taken down as soon as practicable,” says a statement from the ministry.

'The public are reminded to check the MPI website for biotoxin warnings before gathering shellfish and to follow MPI advice on safe seafood harvesting.”

People who becomes ill after eating shellfish should phone Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention immediately.

They are also advised to contact the nearest public health unit and keep any leftover shellfish for testing.

Monitoring of toxin levels will continue and any changes will be communicated accordingly. There are currently no warnings in place for biotoxins in shellfish in New Zealand.