A tanker visiting Port Taranaki in New Plymouth accidentally released a black, sooty substance into the harbour earlier today, prompting a swift cleanup operation. The Port employed a boat and a catchment boom to remove the exhaust spill, ensuring the harbour was cleared efficiently.
Rhyan Honeyfield from the Taranaki Regional Council stated that, while initial assessments showed minimal impact on marine life, monitoring will continue over the coming days. Honeyfield advised the public to report any signs of pollution and to avoid entering the water if pollution is observed.
This incident comes on the heels of a successful financial year for Port Taranaki, which reported a record net profit after tax of $13.87 million for 2022-23, thanks in part to increased ship visits. Concerns for ongoing environmental safety remain a priority despite the strong economic performance.
