West Coast algal bloom remains

Levels of a potentially toxic algal bloom in West Coast shellfish remain high, and a ban on shellfish gathering is likely to remain until May, say health authorities.

West Coast Community and Public Health imposed the ban, which extends northwards from Tauranga Bay, 17km southwest of Westport, after tests found very high toxin levels in shellfish early last month.

The new ban comes just seven months after the end of an 18-month ban.

Apart from nausea, paralysis, numbness, dizziness and vomiting, the shellfish toxin could have long-term effects on the liver and other organs.