A health warning is in place for Lake Rotorua, Ohau Channel and the Okere Arm of Lake Rotoiti after routine water test results confirmed the presence of potentially toxic blue-green algal blooms there.

"The health warning means that people should avoid any activity which results in significant contact with the water in these areas," says Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service medical officer of health Dr Neil de Wet.
"Particularly high levels have been found in Holdens Bay, Lake Rotorua, which is a popular swimming spot.
"Monitoring results have also indicated low levels of blue-green algae in the Kaituna River, including Trout Pool.
"Although monitoring results for the Kaituna River has not yet been high enough to warrant a health warning, caution should be used.
"In the right conditions algal blooms could develop rapidly, so before any contact with lake or river water, it is important to 'look before you leap' and make your own judgement of the water - if in doubt stay out," says Neil.
People should avoid water which is discoloured or where there is surface scum or scum on the shoreline. Also avoid swimming in or drinking water that has a strange musty smell. Pets should also be kept away from areas where blooms are present.
Contact with algal blooms can trigger asthma and hayfever attacks in susceptible individuals, as well as causing skin rashes, tummy upsets, and even neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.
Regular Environment BOP sampling of the lakes and rivers will continue and updates will be provided as further laboratory results become available.