Red alert level warnings are in place for Te Awa
Kairangi/Hutt River at Silverstream due to high levels of
toxic algae.
Greater Wellington advises people not to
swim or let their dogs near the water at the Silverstream
area of Te Awa Kairangi. Dog walkers should ensure their
dogs do not scavenge anything from the riverbanks that may
be contaminated.
Greater Wellington’s senior advisor
for Integration and Insights Penny Fairbrother says toxic
algae can produce neurotoxins that act much like snake venom
does. These toxins can be extremely harmful to humans and
lethal to dogs if ingested.
“We strongly advise that
people avoid using the stretch of Te Awa Kairangi at
Silverstream and keep all dogs and children away from the
river’s edge,” Fairbrother
says.
“Even a small amount of toxic
algae, the size of a 50-cent piece, can be enough to kill a
dog.“Dog owners who think their animals have
swallowed toxic algae, or shows signs of lethargy, muscle
tremors, fast breathing, paralysis or convulsions, should go
to the nearest vet immediately.”
People
who have been in contact with toxic algae and are feeling
unwell, should see a doctor or ring Healthline on 0800 611
116.
The community is advised to check the LAWA
website for toxic algae warnings and alerts before visiting
rivers in the Wellington region this summer.
“Toxic
algal blooms form naturally when temperatures increase, and
calm weather conditions provide a stable growing
environment.” says Fairbrother.
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“It’s important
everyone knows how to spot toxic algae to keep their pets
and whānau safe.”
“Toxic algae grows on rocks in
the riverbed and forms leathery, dark green or black mats,
which can break off and accumulate at the river’s edge. As
the algal mats dry out, they can become light brown colour
and have a distinctive deep earthy or musty
smell.”
Greater Wellington is currently monitoring
popular river swimming spots for toxic algae on a weekly
basis.
To learn more about toxic algae, visit: Greater
Wellington — Toxic algae (gw.govt.nz)
To check
for toxic algae alerts in the Wellington region, visit: Land, Air, Water Aotearoa
(LAWA)
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