Hawke’s Bay Regional Council is aware of an algal bloom causing discolouration in the lower Wairoa River and estuary. Laboratory analysis has confirmed the bloom is caused by Prymnesium sp. This species is not known to be toxic to humans, but for now we strongly recommend avoiding swimming and gathering mahinga kai, and not collecting or touching dead or dying fish or shellfish.
Separately, a rāhui is in place for the Wairoa River from 1 December 2025 until further notice. During this period, please avoid swimming, gathering mahinga kai, or other water-based activities in or on the awa.