Back
2077 days ago

Health Warning – Algal Bloom in Otukaikino/Waimakariri

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Community and Public Health team from Canterbury District Health Board have issued a health warning after potentially toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria) were found in the Otukaikino/Waimakariri confluence near the SH1 and Main North Road bridges.

People and animals, particularly dogs, should avoid the area of the Waimakariri River near SH1 and Main North Road bridges until the health warning has been lifted.

Dr Alistair Humphrey, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, says the algae look like dark brown to black mats and can produce toxins harmful to people and animals.

“Exposure may cause skin rashes, nausea, stomach cramps, tingling and numbness around the mouth and fingertips,” Dr Humphrey says.

“If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately, also let your doctor know if you’ve had contact with dark brown/black algal mats or water in this area.” Read more here

Image
More messages from your neighbours
5 hours ago

Got a Minute? Prove You’re the Smartest Neighbour!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What is it that when given one, you’ll have either two or none?

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.

Image
18 hours ago

Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.

This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

Image
Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
  • 84.6% Yes
    84.6% Complete
  • 13.8% No
    13.8% Complete
  • 1.6% Other - I'll share below
    1.6% Complete
557 votes
13 hours ago

Share your ideas for WDC waste management

Frank from Waikuku & Waikuku Beach

My wife received an email from the Waimak Council at the beginning of September inviting her say on waste management. I assume from the very little response that very few people received this email and even know about this. Here is the link so you can put in your input. letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz...