A suspected outbreak of the norovirus bug has closed a ward at Whangarei Hospital.

The hospital says 11 patients are in isolation and Ward One, which handles Orthopaedic cases, is temporarily closed to new admissions.

Infection control measures are in place, and visits are being restricted over the weekend.

Norovirus is a very common cause of gastroenteritis. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach pains.