Health warnings lifted for Lake Ohakuri and Lake Maraetai

The health warnings for Lake Ohakuri, pictured, and Lake Maraetai have now been lifted. Photo/File

The health warnings issued earlier this month for Lake Ohakuri and Lake Maraetai have now been lifted by the Medical Officer of Health.

Results of water testing by Waikato Regional Council confirmed algal blooms had subsided in the lakes.

Lake Ohakuri is south west of Ngakuru, while Lake Maraetai is in Mangakino.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet said despite the lifting of the warnings it was important lake users looked for signs of algal blooms before using the lakes.

"Algal blooms can develop rapidly and unpredictably and can sometimes produce toxins that are harmful for people as well as animals.

"If there is an obvious algal bloom, or the water looks discoloured, has an unusual smell, or has green or brown particles suspended in it, then it is best to avoid contact with it," he said.

Up-to-date information on health warnings for the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts:
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