Several schools are at risk of a whooping cough outbreak in West Auckland.

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service says risk management is being carried out at up to five schools in the area.

Several students are infected at Laingholm Primary School, which has called off its live school production.

Medical Officer Dr Michael Hale says the outbreak is localised in two small clusters.

"In the last month we've had thirty three new cases. It's one of these infectious diseases that waxes and wanes and we don't ever really get rid of it in New Zealand."

Several students are infected at Laingholm Primary School while others are at home, waiting out incubation periods.

Hale said they're working with schools directly to stop the illness from spreading.

"Schools are key settings where there's a lot of close contact and so these things can move quite quickly."

Dr Hale says children who are coughing need to stay home and see their GP.