Do not be fooled by the presence of fine yellow pollen in Auckland’s stormwater gutters and waterways. It may look like industrial or chemical pollution but it is harmless.

Auckland Regional Council’s (ARC) Pollution Hotline has recently received an influx of calls related to pollen.

The yellow dust that looks like sulphur has been accumulating in some of the region’s waterways, causing quite a stir amongst local residents.

ARC Pollution Response Team Leader, Nigel Clarke, says the yellow pollen released from trees is a seasonal event.

“Pollen is released by trees and accumulates on roads and pavements. Rain washes it down stormwater drains where it ends up in Auckland’s waterways,” he says.

Mr Clarke says the pollen is harmless but it is important the public continue to report water pollution incidents just in case it is something more serious.
 

Above image:  Pollen residue left on an outside table after recent rains in Auckland / WeatherWatch.co.nz

Below image:  Pollen blowing off a pine forrest in Hawkes Bay looks like a yellow gas cloud / Martin Good, Classic Hits Hawkes Bay 89.5FM