Toxic Algae in the lower Waipoua River
There is a toxic algal bloom in the lower Waipoua River, and Greater Wellington Regional Council is advising caution when swimming or dog walking along the riverbank. The bloom was discovered at a monitoring site at the Colombo Road bridge on Wednesday 10 October.
Toxic algae are potentially deadly to humans although there has never been a recorded case in New Zealand. But as toxic algal blooms have increased in frequency and size in recent years, Mark Heath is concerned that babies and toddlers could be at risk if levels rise.
“When a river reaches red alert level, there’s a lot of toxic algae washing up and we’re starting to worry about small children picking it up and eating or mouthing it. It’s very dangerous. There’s also potential for kids horsing around in the river to accidentally swallow it.”
TOXIC ALGAE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
What should I do if my dog eats some?
Contact your vet immediately. In extreme cases death can occur within 30 minutes after the first signs of illness appear. Signs include lethargy, muscle tremors, fast breathing, twitching, paralysis and convulsions.
What if I experience a reaction?
Seek urgent medical attention and advise your doctor of your potential exposure. Ask them to notify Regional Public Health. In humans, skin contact can cause irritation, and if swallowed, can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramps and nausea. If you have health issues after contact with toxic algae (e.g. skin contact) ring your doctor or Healthline 0800 611 116.
Riddle Me This, Neighbours! Bet You Can’t Guess It!
Sometimes narrow, sometimes wide, wind or rain, I stay outside.
Even if there’s heat or snow, from house to house I will still go.
What am I?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5.1% Second half of November
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41.1% 1st December
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17.9% A week before Christmas
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34.6% Whenever you wish
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
Managatainoka Motors: Vintage and Classic Day – THIS Sunday, 24th November!
Get ready to rev your engines and shine up those chrome bumpers because it’s time for a celebration of all things vintage and classic! Gather your car-loving pals and join Tui Brewery for a day filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and a whole lot of horsepower!
For just $10 , you can register your vehicle and have a shot at some incredible prizes, including the grand prize of a $500 Tui Voucher for the coveted Star of the Show!
9am - 5pm at Tui Brewery, Mangatainoka, Pahiatua.
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