Water quality monitoring identified a low level algae bloom in Lake Rotorua this week, prompting Medical Officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet, to issue a public health advisory.
'The southern and western parts of Lake Rotorua between Ngongotaha and the central city have been the most affected,” says Neil.

'Sampling of Lake Rotorua has shown some variability and results have not been consistent enough to issue a health warning.
'In conditions like these and with warm weather algal blooms can develop rapidly. It is important to ‘look before you leap' and make your own judgement of the water – if in doubt stay out.”
People and animals should avoid lake water which is discoloured or where there is surface scum or scum on the shoreline, says Neil. Also avoid swimming in or drinking water that has a strange musty smell.
Toxic blue-green algae can trigger asthma and hayfever attacks in susceptible individuals, as well as causing skin rashes, tummy upsets, and even neurological effects such as tingling round the mouth, headaches, general breathing difficulties and visual problems.
'There is currently one health warning in place for Lake Rotoehu, but as blooms occur quite quickly in the right conditions, it is always safest to check the water before you get in,” says Neil.
'Exercise caution in Lake Rotorua. If you have concerns about possible blooms let Environment Bay of Plenty or your local council know.”
Weekly testing and monitoring by Environment Bay of Plenty will continue across the lakes and rivers in the Bay of Plenty and any updates will be issued accordingly.