Hawke's Bay Medical Officer of Health, Nicholas Jones has warned that water tests have shown that Lake Tuitira, north of Napier, is going through an increased concentration of Cyanobacteria, also known as blue green algae.

Also, he stated: “People should not swim or pursue any other recreational activities which will involve contact with the water until further notice. It was important lake water is not used for drinking or cooking purposes”.

It is being informed that dogs and cattle should be kept away from the lake water, and anyone experiencing symptoms like severe skin rashes, stomach upset, high fever or asthma attack, should contact their GP as soon as possible.

Moreover, cyanobacteria is said to be an ancient group of organisms with characteristics similar to that of bacteria and algae.

In addition, the free-floating cyanobacteria cells tend to multiply to form algae blooms, as several cyanobacteria species produce toxins which present a risk to humans as well as animals.