People are being advised to stay out of Lake Rotorua because of potentially toxic algal blooms.
'High levels of blue-green algae, particularly in Ngongotaha, Holdens Bay, and the lake front area of the city have been confirmed – therefore a health warning for the entire lake has been issued,” says Medical Officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet.

Lake Rotorua.

The health warning means that people should avoid any activity which results in significant contact with the water, says Neil.
Environment BOP has monitored Lake Rotorua closely since a health advisory was issued in early February this year.
'Monitoring results also indicate low levels of blue-green algae in the Ohau channel, the Okere Arm of Lake Rotoiti and the Trout Pool on the Kaituna River,” says Neil.
'While monitoring results have not yet been high enough to warrant a health warning at these other sites, these areas should be treated with caution.
'In the right conditions algal blooms can develop rapidly, so wherever you are swimming this summer, it is important to ‘look before you leap' and make your own judgement of the water – if in doubt stay out.”
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.
The current health warning for Lake Rotoehu remains in place.
For further information visit www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.nz or call 0800 221 555.