Warning over sea lice as Coromandel swimmers suffer bites

People in Whangamatā have reported skin irritation from sea lice. Photo / Niel Bruce

Beachgoers are being warned about getting nipped by sea lice in the Coromandel region.

Safeswim has issued a sea lice warning in Whangamatā following reports of swimmers itching and getting skin irritation.

Sea lice are found in intertidal, rocky and sandy shores all around the country, but are more prominent in summer.

Surf Lifesaving eastern region manager Chaz Gibbons-Cambell said it was concerning when a huge influx of visitors was filling up beaches.

“Lots of people have been reporting getting bitten by sea lice when they’ve been sitting above the high-tide mark.

“There’s not a lot of free beach spaces in Whangamatā, which is causing people to find the nearest possible beaches to sit on. That can be often quite dangerous.”

Gibbons-Cambell said while sea lice were annoying, the main concern of Surf Lifesaving was the safety of swimmers.

“The lifeguards at Whangamatā have been busy with rescues in the water and assisting people out of prominent rips along the beach, he said.

“If you can, sit below the high tide mark and you’ll get less [lice] annoying you.”