Rena update (update 166)

15 January 2012 - 4.00PM

Improving weather conditions have enabled steady progress to continue at the wreck of the Rena, says Maritime New Zealand (MNZ).

National On-Scene Commander Rob Service says the divers have been able to carry out preliminary sub-surface inspections around the Rena.

“This will enable the divers to prepare for a full underwater survey of the sunken rear section once the sea swells ease over the next couple of days,” said Mr Service.

“Once a detailed underwater survey is complete, the salvage contractors can plan their next steps to recover underwater containers.”

“The crane barge Smit Borneo has also now connected to the sunken aft section of the Rena on its port (left-hand) side” he added.

Mr Service said shoreline assessment teams were out on Matakana Island today and teams also checked on the protective oil booms at Maketū, Little Waihi and Waitahanui which will remain in place for now.

“Shoreline Clean-up Assessment Teams (SCAT) will be deployed to Motiti Island tomorrow, with the assistance of an environmental advisor” said Mr Service. Wildlife field teams today recovered two dead oiled little blue penguins from Papamoa.

Today a lightly-oiled little blue penguin was transferred from Motiti Island to the Te Maunga wildlife recovery facility.

Braemar Howells container recovery team had five vessels along the Bay of Plenty coastline today.

Rough seas hampered efforts for the Braemar Howells team to recover debris in the White Island area using the crane barge Subritzski and a fast response craft.

Another vessel has been working to recover a container north of Waihi beach.

People are reminded to contact the Braemar Howells Hotline if they discover a container or debris on 0800 333 772 or email rena@braemarhowells.com noting the container ID number and its location.

For any oil-related matters, members of the public can contact the oil spill number 0800 645 774