HAB Alerts!

What happens when blue-green algal blooms reach toxic levels?

Environment Bay of Plenty passes on all blue-green algal monitoring results to the relevant health authorities, in this case Pacific Health. Pacific Health in conjunction with Rotorua District Council erect warning signs at relevant bays and lakes and issue press releases. If a lake or bay is no longer safe for contact recreation (or if a lake or bay becomes safe), Environment Bay of Plenty will update the Lake Health Warnings webpage.

The absence of signs does not necessarily mean that the waters are safe to swim in as blooms can occur very rapidly. It is advisable not to swim in waters that are distinctly pea-green in colour especially if there are green surface scums or films. If you think you may have been exposed to toxins from an algal bloom see your doctor and notify the health authorities.