New Zealand Food Safety's warning the public to avoid shellfish from the Taranaki coast due to paralytic shellfish toxins

The notice extends from Cape Egmont to Albatross Point, with affected species including mussels, oysters, pipi, cockles, and scallops.

Symptoms usually appear within 3 hours of eating, and may include numbness, difficulty breathing, headache, nausea, and paralysis.

Food Safety Deputy Director-General Vincent Arbuckle says cooking won't remove the toxin.

He says those feeling ill should phone Healthline or seek medical attention.