24 Mar 2012

Toxic algae warnings removed from two rivers

8:15 am on 24 March 2012

Health warnings are being removed from some Canterbury rivers because of a drop in the levels of toxic algae.

Canterbury District Health Board says toxic blue-green algae growth has dropped to safe levels in the Ashley and Hurunui rivers.

But it also warns people to continue to stay out of Lake Ellesmere and the Waiau River near the Waiau township.

The algae appear as dark brown or black mats attached to rocks on the riverbed and often have a strong musty smell.