Last month, box jellyfish made a rare appearance in showing up in force on leeward beaches, where 700 jellyfish were counted along the Wai'anae coast and 30 people reported stings. It was the highest influx in that area in a decade, an Emergency Service spokesman said.

During a box jellyfish warning people are warned to stay out of the water, particularly if you are allergic to stings.

Anyone who is stung and experiences difficulty breathing, muscle cramps or spasms or persistent pain should seek immediate medical attention.