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Scientists looking for clues to the deaths of two dogs on Auckland beaches believe a never-seen-before naturally occurring neurotoxin is to blame.
Tests to confirm it are due back next week.
Dr Susie Wood, a scientist with the world renowned, Nelson-based Cawthron Institute says dogs have been killed by toxins in fresh-water algae but there has never been a report of a dog dying from a marine algae.
However she says this is the most likely scenario and it is unlikely to be harmful to humans unless eaten.
Meanwhile, authorities have extended their warnings for the mystery health scare; with the public health service says water in the whole of the Hauraki Gulf should be avoided.
People are being warned not to swim, fish, or dive in the Hauraki Gulf and not take their children or pets to the beach.
On Saturday afternoon, eight penguins and several other birds were seen dead on Omaha beach, north of Auckland.
The unexplained deaths have the locals talking.
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