Toxic algae resurgence in the Wairarapa region
With the warmer weather in the area, toxic algae has reappeared in the rivers around the Wairarapa region. Toxic algae is harmful to humans and dogs when ingested, a piece the size of a 50c coin is enough to kill a dog.
The algae has been found in three sites: Ruamāhanga at Double Bridges, Ruamāhanga at Te Ore Ore, and Waingawa at South Rd.
Greater Wellington Senior Advisor of Environmental Science, Penny Fairbrother said “Toxic algae has increased to amber levels at the site meaning we advise caution to swimmers using these areas. As toxic algae often occurs in patches, the best thing people can do to stay safe, is to know what it looks like so you can avoid it”.
“The risk is higher still with detached algal mats being found at all sites, meaning the algae has broken off rocks in the riverbed and accumulated at the river’s edge, within easy reach for dogs, said Fairbrother.
What you need to know:
- Before swimming, check the Land, Air and Water Aotearoa website.
- Avoid three sites which are contaminated with toxic algae: Ruamāhanga at Double Bridges, Ruamāhanga at Te Ore Ore, and Waingawa at South Rd.
- Dogs should be on leashes around rivers.
- If you suspect that you or your dog has ingested toxic algae, see your doctor or ring Healthline (0800 611 116) and immediately take dogs to the nearest vet.
To find out more about toxic algae and how to spot it, check out the Great Wellington website.
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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73% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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16.2% Hmm, maybe?
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10.7% Yes!
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
How many balls of string does it take to reach the moon?
(Peter from Carterton kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Peter!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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Poll: Would you participate in local initiatives aimed at stopping plastic from reaching our oceans?
Volunteers will be scouring the foreshore, riverbanks, and islands for rubbish on Saturday the 13th as part of the Clean Up the Hutt event.
This initiative helps stop plastic from reaching our oceans and makes our waterways cleaner and safer for everyone.
We want to know: Should this be rolled out across all coastal cities in Aotearoa? And more importantly… would you get involved? 💚
Want the details? The Post has you covered.
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72.5% Yes!
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15% Maybe ...
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12.5% No.
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