09 February 2007

Auckland Regional Public Health Service
Public Health Warning - Cyanobacteria Bloom - Lakes Spectacle, Kuwakatai and Slipper (Rodney District)

The latest laboratory results confirm that algal blooms of Cyanobacteria in Lakes Spectacle, Kuwakatai and Slipper have breached trigger levels.

Auckland Regional Public Services Public Health Medicine Specialist Dr Denise Barnfather says that these sites have returned cell counts above the health warning level of the potentially toxin producing algae. The warning is for all parts of the lakes.

Water samples taken show that there is significant bloom activity in the lake.

The health warning recommends that the water should not be used for drinking, nor should anyone undertake any activity which would result in significant skin contact with the lake water.

The blooms can disappear as quickly as they arise. The Rodney District Council will continue to monitor the lakes on a regular basis. The Rodney council have erected warning signs at public access points to the lake.

  Download ARPHS Fact Sheet for Cynobacteria Bloom (PDF file)

For further information contact:

Rodney District Council
Phone: 07 348 4199

Dr Denise Barnfather/ Dr Simon Baker
Health Protection Officer
Auckland Regional Public Health Services
Phone: 09 623 4600

Ends

Fleur King
External Communications Manager
Auckland District Health Board
Mobile: 021 804 122