Health Warning lifted for Algal Bloom in Hae Hae Te Moana River at Te Moana Gorge

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora has lifted its algal bloom health warning issued for the Hae Hae Te Moana River at Te Moana Gorge. This was issued on 21 November 2023.

Recent cyanobacteria surveys of the Hae Hae Te Moana River have shown the cover of toxic algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river has reduced and is now below levels that are of concern to public health.

Dr Cheryl Brunton, Medical Officer of Health for the National Public Health Service, says Environment Canterbury’s monitoring of the Hae Hae Te Moana River will resume next summer when there is increased likelihood of cyanobacteria growth.

Health warnings remain in place for the following South Canterbury waterways due to ongoing algal blooms. These include:

• Opihi River Catchment
• Temuka River at SH1 Bridge
• Temuka River at Manse Bridge
• Waihi River at Wilson Street Footbridge.

Facts about cyanobacteria:

For further details visit:
https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/canterbury-region/

Or contact Te Mana Ora | Community and Public Health on (03) 364 1777:
https://www.cph.co.nz/your-health/recreational-water/

For more information about Mahinga Kai:
https://www.cph.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/saf0112.pdf

ENDS

For further information, contact:

Karen Berry
Public Health Communications Lead
National Public Health Service
Te Waipounamu
Health NZ
021 139 7442
kberry@scdhb.health.nz