A reminder to be aware of the risks when out in the garden this long weekend

Health New Zealand is urging Kiwi gardeners to take simple precautions, after 159 cases of Legionnaires' disease were recorded in the past year.

It thrives in moist environments including potting mix and compost.

Health NZ's Dr Sally Thomas says people can protect themselves by wearing a mask, ensuring the compost or potting mix is damp not dusty and washing your hands.

She says a lot of people tend to be unaware that potting mix or compost is the source of the bacteria that's made them unwell.