Is sulphur in Rotorua Safe?

Is sulphur in Rotorua Safe?

Living with Rotorua’s distinctive sulphur smell won’t slow your mind, according to new research. A study by US and Kiwi researchers proves the low levels of hydrogen sulphide gas in the city’s environment did not further harm asthma sufferers.

Where can you be exposed to hydrogen sulfide?

Some examples of workers at risk of being exposed to hydrogen sulfide include the following:

• Factory workers in plants where rayon textiles are manufactured.
• Petroleum and natural gas workers involved in drilling and refining.
• Workers in wastewater treatment industries.

Why does Rotorua smell like sulphur?

The Rotorua region is rich with geothermal activity, geysers and bubbling mud pools dot the landscape. While the lake has more sulphur than normal due to this natural phenomenon, the smell really comes from the various geysers and thermal pools found close to the lake.

Is air bad in Rotorua?

Scientists are concerned about mounting evidence of long-term health effects from the geothermal gases that give Rotorua its “pong”. A study has found that hospital admissions for asthma and other breathing diseases in six Rotorua districts between 1991 and 2001 were five to 10 times the local average.

Does Taupo smell?

Catch the ferry across the lake to start your exploration and prepare to be stunned by spouting geysers and one of only two geothermal caves in the world. Don’t be put off by the faint smell of rotten eggs — it’s caused by hydrogen sulphide steaming from the earth’s crust, and somehow it adds to the experience.

What happens if you breathe in hydrogen sulfide?

At low levels, hydrogen sulfide causes irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Moderate levels can cause headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, as well as coughing and difficulty in breathing. Higher levels can cause shock, convulsions, coma, and death.

What happens if you inhale hydrogen?

Inhaling or ingesting hydrogen (H2) gas improves oxidative stress-induced damage in animal models and humans. After measuring the baseline levels of exhaled H2 during room air breathing via a one-way valve and a mouthpiece, the subject breathed low levels (160 ppm) of H2 gas mixed with purified artificial air.

Do you get used to the smell in Rotorua?

It is very subjective and also weather-dependent. At its worst it does smell like rotten eggs, but you very quickly get used to it.

What causes the smell in Rotorua?

Air pollution in Rotorua is often assumed to be the characteristic sulphur smell. This naturally occurring smell is hydrogen sulphide and comes from the geothermal activity in the area. There is a study underway that is investigating the long term effects of exposure to hydrogen sulphide.

Is Rotorua part of Waikato?

It covers the Waikato District, Waipa District, Matamata-Piako District, South Waikato District and Hamilton City, as well as Hauraki, Coromandel Peninsula, the northern King Country, much of the Taupō District, and parts of Rotorua District. It is governed by the Waikato Regional Council.