South Canterbury DHB’s Community and Public Health unit has issued a health warning for Pareora River at SH1.

The warning follows finding moderate to high cover of potentially toxic algae (benthic cyanobacteria).
People should avoid the area and animals, particularly dogs, should not be allowed near the water until the health warning has been lifted.

There are also other access points along the Pareora River that may have benthic cyanobacteria present.

People are advised to treat every low-flowing river cautiously, check for the presence of benthic cyanobacteria and avoid contact.

Environment Canterbury said it continues to monitor the river on a regular basis.