The Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning toxin warning for the Coromandel East coast has been removed from Opito Bay and Whitianga Harbour.

From today the affected area is now the entire coastline from Tairua Harbour to Whakatane, and includes Pauanui, Opoutere, Onemana, Whangamata, Whiritoa, plus Waihi Beach and estuaries.

All inshore islands along this coastline are included in the warning, but the Thames Coromandel District Council says Aquaculture Industry grown and supplied shellfish is safe to consume.

Council adds that this because the shellfish comes from approved growing areas which are tested on a weekly basis to ensure public safety.

The warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops, as well as catseyes, and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in affected area shouldn't be taken or eaten.

Paua, crayfish, and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking.

Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause a range of symptoms.

They include: numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure.

These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish and anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention.

Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes to the warning area will be communicated accordingly.