NEWS RELEASE
3 February 2005

Irritating jellyfish swarm into Wellington Harbour

Swimmers are warned to take care during dips in Wellington Harbour – which is currently swarming with jellyfish.

Witnesses report a ‘vast’ number of jellyfish of varying shapes and sizes in the harbour – and Nathan Hight, Manager of Surf Lifesaving Wellington, says a considerable number of people have been treated in the past few days for stings and “quite painful” skin irritations after coming into contact with the creatures while swimming.

Nathan says the recommended treatment for jellyfish stings is to thoroughly rinse the affected area with water – to remove the remnants of tentacles – and then apply an ice pack if necessary. Panadol or similar painkiller is also recommended.

Generally speaking the pain, irritation or redness subsides after a few hours.

Wellington Harbour Master Mike Pryce reports that the jellyfish usually proliferate at this time of year. He adds that, in past years, the brown mess created by jellyfish churned up by propellers has prompted false alarms about oil spills on the harbour.

ENDS

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