RENA Boating exclusion zone reduced

In consultation with the appropriate authorities, Bay of Plenty Regional Council's Harbourmaster has amended the exclusion zone off the Bay of Plenty coast from midnight on Friday 18 November 2011.

Click here to download a high resolution map of the exclusion zone

The Harbourmaster has directed that the area of sea within three nautical miles of the grounded vessel Rena is closed to unauthorised vessels or persons.

The area of the exclusion zone has been reduced because the oil and containers coming from the groundedRenacargo ship are currently contained, reducing the risk of injury or damage due to navigational safety hazards.

However vessel operators are reminded that the exclusion zone could be amended again, should the situation change with the Rena or the containers. People are advised to check the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website (www.boprc.govt.nz) or with the local coastguard on radio channels VHF 16 or 83, to find out the latest information before taking their vessels out, while theRena response continues.

Boat operators are reminded to take extra care around three anchoring sites, used for corralling containers that have fallen off the Rena. Currently there are no containers in these areas, but there are unlit buoys, ropes, chains and anchors, so it is advisable to take extra precautions. These sites are east of Rabbit Island (Motuotau Island), off the western side of Mōtītī Island and off the coast of Pāpāmoa Beach.

They are also reminded to keep well clear of all response vessels assisting with theRenasituation, and to keep an active lookout for any debris, oil or containers.

It is important to notify Maritime New Zealand immediately if you see oil or containers in the water, by calling 0800 645 774.

Anyone found in the exclusion zone without the express permission of the harbourmaster could be prosecuted.

The boat ramps at Pāpāmoa East and Bell Road (Kaituna) have been re-opened as a result of the change to the exclusion zone.