Health warning lifted for Lake Taupo as algal bloom disperses

Waikato Regional Council water scientist Dr Eloise Ryan taking samples of lake water at Acacia Bay. Photo/supplied

The health warning issued for parts of Lake Taupo due to potentially toxic algal bloom has been lifted by the Medical Officer of Health.

Observation and water testing by Waikato Regional Council and Taupo District Council confirm the algal bloom has dispersed in the affected areas of the lake for the time being.

Gene testing of samples collected last Friday indicate the algae was not producing toxin then.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Jim Miller advised caution when enjoying any lake or river this summer.

"The current warm conditions may encourage algae growth, so it is always safest to check the water before you get in. If the water looks discoloured, smells unusual, if there is scum on the surface, or the water has green or brown particles suspended in it then it is best to avoid contact and swim or play somewhere else."

Regional council senior water scientist Bill Vant said staff would collect samples from 12 of the lake's bathing beaches weekly, and conduct visual inspections for signs of algal bloom, as part of a wider monitoring programme.

"With hot, calm conditions and the presence of plant nutrients, phosphorus and nitrogen in water, the conditions are right for blooms to occur in our region's waterways over summer.

"They can develop rapidly and unpredictably, and in some cases can produce toxins that are harmful for people as well as animals.

"We have staff on standby over the Christmas-New Year period to respond to any reports from the public of algal blooms in our region's waterways," Vant said.

"We'll also be continuing to work closely with our colleagues at Toi Te Ora Public Health, Taupo District Council and Tuwharetoa."

Tuwharetoa Maori Trust Board chief executive Topia Rameka was pleased with the latest results.

"It is good things can now return to normal and our whanau and community can continue to enjoy our moana.

"It is also a timely reminder that Lake Taupo is a dynamic environment. The quality of our wai is paramount and we need to continue to look at ways to enhance and safeguard this precious resource."

The council will continue monitoring its water supply intakes as part of its annual summer testing programme.

Taupo Mayor David Trewavas said the news could not be better.

"We know this has taken its toll on our communities, tourism operators and accommodation providers over the past week, and it was certainly a stark reminder that we can't fight nature.

"However, now the warnings are lifted we are back open for business and all I can say is bring it on – and just in time for Christmas. We couldn't have asked for a better present."

Private water supplies can also be reinstated now the warning has been lifted.

People who see what they think are algal blooms can report sightings to 0800 800 401.