Council investigating source and extent of diesel spill at Thames wharf

Waikato Regional Council is investigating the source and extent of diesel detected in the water at Shortland Wharf, Thames, where a 12-metre steel boat sunk on Sunday.

The council has been speaking with potential salvors to refloat and dispose of the boat, the MV Gleaner.

The sheen of diesel was detected by a staff member yesterday afternoon.

Regional On Scene Commander Celeste Davies-Calway said the boat had been monitored closely since it sunk and there had been no indication, or concern, about diesel being discharged from the boat before the discovery.

“A smell was detected yesterday afternoon, and a light sheen was seen on the water,” said Davies-Calway.

“Staff are on their way with some marine oil spill booms which are designed to absorb oil, and they will carry out an assessment to establish the source and the extent of the diesel.

“We recognise this is an area of significant conservation value and we are keen to get out there and identify and protect any areas at risk.”

The vessel is underwater at high tide and partially submerged at low.

The council will provide updates when they become available.