The Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) has changed its name to the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) as of 1 July 2025. The website address is now www.phfscience.nz. Visitors are automatically redirected to the new address. Please check and update any links and bookmarks.

Environmental health report: Harmful Algal Bloom Field Study: Lake Waikare 2024

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Summary

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are increasing across many locations globally. Cyanobacterial HABs in freshwater systems cause many environmental issues, and because many species produce natural toxins, known as cyanotoxins, they are also a risk to human health. Aerosols from lakes with cyanobacterial HABs could pose potentially serious health risks to people. However, the health risk posed by toxin aerosolisation, and the environmental factors that promote aerosolisation, are unclear. The objectives of this field study were to develop evidence to support the development of future guidance. Specifically, the field study investigated the environmental drivers that may influence aerosol production during a cyanobacterial bloom and the measurement of cyanotoxins in aerosols downwind of a bloom.

Download