Algae spotted in Kāpiti present elsewhere

 UPDATE: April 18

The toxic algae spotted in Kāpiti is more than likely to be present at a number streams, ponds and drains in the district.

Council is reminding people to take care when walking their dogs on surrounding pathways and tracks.

When in close contact with this type of blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria Anabaena) it can be fatal towards animals.

Toxic algae is usually a dark green, brown or black colour and forms blooms that appear as a thick mat attached to rocks, or beds or the near the edges of waterways.

If people are concerned about any illness following contact with water in the district, they should talk to a doctor. If your pet is showing symptoms, visit a veterinarian.

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UPDATE: April 14

Council is urging people to take care near waterways in Paraparaumu after spotting a second instance of toxic algae growth.

Staff noticed Lindale Stream near Waterstone Ave has Cyanobacteria Anabaena – a type of blue-green algae that is particularly toxic to dogs.

This same algae growth is also present at Awatea Lagoons  (pictured) near Mazengarb Road, where it was also detected in March.

Parks and Recreation Manager Alison Law says the naturally-forming algae at Lindale Stream is similar to that at Awatea Lagoons in that it’s present around the edge of the water and near the inlets and outlets of the waterways.

“We’re reminding people to continue to take care near these waterways and in particular if taking your dog for a walk in the area, to please make sure it’s on a leash,” she says.

“Dogs, as we know, love to scavenge and play near water so are particularly susceptible to poisoning from toxic algae and the last thing we would want is for anyone or a pet to get sick.”

Signage is up at Awatea Lagoons advising people using the walking tracks in the area of the presence of algae, but more signs will be put up at Lindale Stream and in the nearby area as a reminder and as extra precaution.

“We do monitor our waterways regularly and are continuing to keep an eye on things in that area as Lindale Stream feeds into Mazengarb Park stream and pond. However, we have checked the pond and stream today and they’re currently clear of the algae.”