Press Release – Canterbury DHB

Health Warning – Algal Bloom in Rakahuri/Ashley River

The Community and Public Health division of the Canterbury District Health Board have issued a health warning for Rakahuri/Ashley River.

The warning follows finding moderate cover with detaching mats of potentially toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the Rakahuri/Ashley River.

People and animals, particularly dogs, should avoid the area of the Rakahuri/Ashley River until the health warning has been lifted.

Dr Ramon Pink 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 Pink 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.”

Reticulated town water supplies are currently safe but no one should drink water from the river at any time

Pets that show signs of illness after coming into contact with algal mats should be taken to a vet immediately.

Dr Ramon Pink says people and animals should remain out of the waterways until the warnings have been lifted.

Environment Canterbury is monitoring the sites and the public will be advised of any changes in water quality.

The existing warnings to remain out of the following waterways due to ongoing algal blooms are still in place:
• Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere
• Selwyn River at Whitecliffs Domain
• Selwyn River at Glentunnel
• Ashley River Rangiora/Loburn Bridge

Facts about cyanobacteria:

• Appears as dark brown/black mats attached to rocks along the riverbed.
• The algae occur naturally but can increase rapidly during warmer months.
• It often has a strong musty smell and algal toxin concentrations can vary over short periods with changing environmental conditions.
• Although high river levels will remove the algal bloom, detached mats can accumulate along the shore and increase the risk of exposure to toxins.
• If a health warning is in place avoid contact with the water.
• Although district or city councils may place warning signs, these may not be seen at the numerous river access points, hence the need for people/ dog-walkers to treat every low-flowing river cautiously.

For further information visit https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/your-environment/water/swimming-water-quality/
Or contact Community and Public Health on (03) 364 1777.

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