A public health officer revealed in a media briefing that contact with the phormidium algae could cause eye irritation, breathing difficulties if inhaled, and stomach upsets. Source: Taupo District Council
A toxin-producing species of algae has been identified during provisional screening of samples collected from Hallett's Bay.
The samples were collected during an inspection of 13 popular swimming sites in south-eastern Lake Taupo over the weekend by Waikato Regional Council staff.
The screening – carried out by regional council scientists– suggests the species at Hallett's Bay is similar to that found at areas within Five Mile Bay, Acacia Bay, the main lakefront in Taupo, Whakaipo Bay and Kinloch Beach last week.
However, the samples will undergo further testing by Niwa scientists to determine how much of the toxin-producing species there is, with the results expected in several days.
Signage erected by Taupo District Council remains in place at Halletts Bay. Members of the public are urged to exercise caution and to avoid entering algae-affected water.
Hot, dry conditions have lead to the outbreak of brownish algae. Photo/supplied
Meanwhile, that council has reinstated its water intakes at the lakeside settlements of Hatepe and Motuoapa, which were turned off as a precautionary measure on Friday.
Daily water testing at the intakes was conducted over the weekend and the results gave the all-clear for any toxin and water clarity issues at the intake sites.
