Environment Waikato responds to spill in Raglan Harbour

Environment Waikato received a report of an oil spill in Raglan Harbour shortly after 11am today.

The spill was reported to Environment Waikato by a customer services officer from Waikato District Council who was alerted by a member of the public.

Her report indicated a substance that looked like oil was present in the water around Raglan Wharf.

Environment Waikato sent a staff member trained in responding to marine oil spills to the scene.

“When our staff member arrived the oil was sitting under around the edge of Raglan Wharf, covering an area of about 10 square metres in a thin film,” said Environment Waikato Emergency Manager Brendan Morris.

Reports indicated wind blowing towards the shore and an incoming tide had keep the oil localised and prevented it heading out to sea.

Mr Morris said absorbent pads had been used to soak up the spill and believed the clean up operation would be completed today, provided there were no further leaks.

“From the information we currently have, we believe the spill was minor,” he said.

Environment Waikato staff members are assessing possible effects on the harbour but at this stage impacts on marine life and the environment are expected to be minimal.

Environment Waikato will continue to monitor the situation this afternoon and will be ready to respond if any further spillage occurs.