Toxic Algae Causes Shellfish Ban

Health authorities have warned the public not to take or eat shellfish from Nelson's Golden Bay after the discovery of high bio-toxin levels.

The Nelson-Marlborough District Health Board says domoic acid, a shellfish poison, can cause vomiting and even seizure or coma.

Commercial fishermen have delayed the start of their scallop season by at least a week.

The DHB says fish from Golden Bay is still safe to eat and the ban on shellfish will be reviewed mid-next week.