Rena long-term environmental recovery
The grounding of the Rena on Otaiti (Astrolabe Reef) on 5 October 2012 had the potential to be New Zealand’s worst environmental disaster. The vessel held more than 1700 tonnes of oil and more than 1300 shipping containers. These could have had a disastrous, multi-year effect on the pristine Bay of Plenty marine environment.
Government (both central and local), iwi, and the local community took action immediately following the grounding, and have continued to work together to minimise the environmental effects. At the same time, the appointed salvors have worked tirelessly to remove oil from the vessel, averting more major environmental disaster from a significant oil spill.
Rena Long-term Environmental Recovery Plan
Minister for the Environment Hon Dr Nick Smith launched the Rena Long-term Environmental Recovery Plan in Tauranga on 26 January 2012.
This Plan sets the goals and objectives for the long-term environmental recovery following the grounding of the Rena. It describes the environmental issues and outlines the actions that will be undertaken to address them.
You can read Dr Smith’s media release on the Beehive website.
Further information
Health and safety |
The Bay of Plenty Health Board has information on health and safety (Toi Te Ora website) for residents and people helping with the beach clean up, as well as health advice on eating seafood from the affected area. |
Media updates |
Maritime New Zealand is coordinating media updates (Maritime New Zealand website). |
Wildlife response |
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Beach clean up |
If you haven’t yet volunteered for beach clean up and you want to help, please call 0800 645 774 or register on Bay of Plenty Regional Council website. |
Last updated: 26 January 2012
