-
Source: ONE News
Toxic algae has been found in the Hutt River north of Wellington and authorities are advising people to take care.
The Greater Wellington Regional Council and Regional Public Health said people on the river should be on the lookout for the dark brown or black coloured algae and avoid it and the water it was in.
The algae could be fatal to dogs and cause vomiting, diarrhoea and skin irritations in humans.
The council has posted signs around the Silverstream rail bridge and areas downstream to alert people to the danger.
Warm and dry weather with low river flows meant the toxic algae could become exposed and easily accessible.
Meanwhile, Environment Canterbury has reminded dog owners to take care around water with dark brown/black algae in it after a dog became ill.
The dog had recently ingested algae in Walter Park in northern Christchurch.
Tests were being carried out in Otago this week after two dogs reportedly died in Mosgiel, 17km west of Dunedin, of algae poisoning.
Parents with young children and dog owners were warned to take care.
