Current environmental incidents
We respond to a variety of environmental incidents in the region that affect our air, water and land. Here you can find the latest serious environmental incident alerts.
This page covers alerts for unexpected or urgent incidents involving discharges to land, air, and water, where we need the public to avoid a particular area. Here's how you can report an environmental incident.
If you are looking for warnings related to toxic cyanobacteria or faecal contamination at recreational water sites, see our health warnings.
Akaroa Harbour lubricating oil spill incident
Incident date: 8 March 2026
Last updated: 11am, 8 March 2026
The Royal New Zealand Navy vessel, HMNZS Te Kaha, has released an estimated 200-300 litres of lubricating oil while anchored in Akaroa Harbour. Environment Canterbury was notified immediately by New Zealand Defence Force and is working with them to monitor and support clean‑up activities.
If you see or smell oil, please avoid the area and report it to our Pollution Hotline – 0800 POLLUTE (0800 765 588).
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Nīkau Palm Valley Bay vessel incident
Incident date: 31 January 2026
Last updated: 9am, 24 February 2026
On 31 January a Black Cat Cruises vessel ran aground at Nīkau Palm Valley Bay, Akaroa, resulting in significant damage to the vessel. All 41 people on board were safely rescued and unharmed.
Good progress has been made in cutting up and removing the wreck.
The next phase is now underway and will involve the removal of the submerged hull sections and debris from the seabed by specialist divers. This work is expected to take approximately 14 days, weather and sea conditions permitting.
A 500 metre exclusion zone has been put in place around the wreck and recovery site to ensure the safety of the divers and teams working to remove the wreck. We ask all water users to respect these restrictions.
No further fuel sheen or distressed wildlife has been observed. Debris continues to be removed daily.