KEY POINTS:
Up to 5000 litres of diesel could have leaked into the sea off Ninety Mile Beach from a washed up fishing boat.
The 23m Kumea II was driven by big seas on to the beach at Waipapakauri Ramp, northwest of Kaitaia on Monday and abandoned by its crew.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter rescued the four crew members when it started taking on water and its motor failed 11km off the southern end of the beach. None of the crew were hurt.
Northland Regional Council staff managed to recover over 3150 litres of diesel, oil and lubricant from the boat only reachable during low tides.
Deputy regional harbourmaster Jim Lyle said the boat was pulled upright with land-based machinery and the owner is still hopeful the boat can be salvaged in one piece.
He said the council has reported the diesel spill to health authorities who he said are confident it would not pose any long term environmental threats or health risks.
Ninety Mile Beach is a popular spot for shellfish gathering, surf casting and swimming.
Debris from the 24-year-old boat, including buoys and fish bins, has washed up on the beach.
- NZHERALD STAFF
