A coloured sea along the Napier coast has been confirmed by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council as an algal bloom.

HBRC took samples for testing by the Cawthron Institute this week.

The samples confirm that it is a non-toxic algae bloom named Akashiwo sanguinea. Akashiwo is Japanese for ‘red tide’.

The bloom is quite common in Tasmania and off the Californian and Florida coastlines. It may be linked to the consistent rain Hawke’s Bay has experienced over recent weeks.

A flyover by HBRC staff revealed the extent of the bloom which stretches from Te Awanga to Wairoa.

The sea colour varies from light brown, typical of flood water from the rivers, to a dark purple.

There is also more foam in the surf zone at beaches where the bloom is present.

HBRC will continue to take samples today and over the next week to make sure the bloom remains non-toxic and no risk to human or animal health.

HBRC have also been liaising with the Public Health Unit of HBDHB and Department of Conservation to keep them informed.