Update: Sunken boat at Thames wharf

Waikato Regional Council staff have been onsite today and observed a very small sheen alongside the wharf, near the MV Gleaner. The sheen was initially suspected to be diesel; however, the small volume, very thin nature and the silvery colour now leads us to suspect it is a small amount of hydraulic fluid or similar light substance.

Staff could not determine the exact source of discharge, however a small amount appeared to have been weeping from under the hull, where the vessel is sitting on mud. We have no reason to suspect that the vessel was storing significant amounts of hydrocarbons onboard. 

Absorbent booms and pads were applied to remove as much of the sheen as possible. The absorbent booms will remain in place over the weekend to absorb any residue and the site will be regularly monitored by Waikato Regional Council staff over the weekend and next week. 

We have liaised with the wharf owner, local iwi, Department of Conservation and Thames Coromandel District Council ensuring local stakeholders are kept up to date with our response actions and planning. 

If you see oiled wildlife near the Thames Wharf, please keep your distance and ring our 24/7 freephone number 0800 800 401 to report the sighting.