Toxic Algae in the lower Waipoua River
There is a toxic algal bloom in the lower Waipoua River, and Greater Wellington Regional Council is advising caution when swimming or dog walking along the riverbank. The bloom was discovered at a monitoring site at the Colombo Road bridge on Wednesday 10 October.
Toxic algae are potentially deadly to humans although there has never been a recorded case in New Zealand. But as toxic algal blooms have increased in frequency and size in recent years, Mark Heath is concerned that babies and toddlers could be at risk if levels rise.
“When a river reaches red alert level, there’s a lot of toxic algae washing up and we’re starting to worry about small children picking it up and eating or mouthing it. It’s very dangerous. There’s also potential for kids horsing around in the river to accidentally swallow it.”
TOXIC ALGAE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
What should I do if my dog eats some?
Contact your vet immediately. In extreme cases death can occur within 30 minutes after the first signs of illness appear. Signs include lethargy, muscle tremors, fast breathing, twitching, paralysis and convulsions.
What if I experience a reaction?
Seek urgent medical attention and advise your doctor of your potential exposure. Ask them to notify Regional Public Health. In humans, skin contact can cause irritation, and if swallowed, can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramps and nausea. If you have health issues after contact with toxic algae (e.g. skin contact) ring your doctor or Healthline 0800 611 116.
Time’s Running Out - Score Your Dream Bed Today!
Hey neighbours!
Our Boxing Day Bed Sale is still on, but it’s ending soon! If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your bed, now’s the perfect time to act.
Enjoy some of our lowest prices of the year, with limited-time promotions across a wide range of beds and mattresses.
Stocks are limited, and once the sale ends, the deals are gone, so don’t miss out! Pop in and take advantage while you still can. A better night’s sleep is waiting for you!
Find your nearest Beds4U store: beds4u.co.nz/store-locator
Browse all Boxing Day deals: beds4u.co.nz/boxing-day
Today’s Mind-Bender is the Last of the Year! Can You Guess It Before Everyone Else? 🌟🎁🌲
I dance in the sky with green and gold, a spectacle few are lucky to behold; I’m best seen in the south, a celestial sight—what am I, lighting up the New Zealand night?
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Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!
Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?
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79.1% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
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20.9% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
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