Thursday, 18 June 2015

Rough weather aids clean-up

Gale force winds are helping expose oil as clean-up crews continue to sweep the affected area between Foxton Beach and just north of the Himatangi Stream today.

Horizons Regional Council on-site commander Ian Lowe says although conditions are rough for clean-up crews, they are exposing sections previously covered by sand and speeding up the natural breakdown of any oil left buried.

“It’s tough work out there for the 40 people we have helping today,” says Mr Lowe.

“Due to this weather we expect the next high tide to come right up to the sand dunes so crews will be stood down at lunch time as beach space reduces. However this, combined with heavy rain forecasted, will help break down any oil that has been covered by sand.”

Mr Lowe says there have been no new oil deposits overnight and the team will continue to monitor the affected area tomorrow and over the weekend.

“Monitoring will be ongoing from this point out and we will be putting up signage to warn visitors that the area has been affected by a recent oil contamination. If anyone finds any patches of oil after this rough weather passes we’d like them to give us a call on toll free 0508 476 558.”

Foxton and Himatangi Beaches will be reopened this afternoon but may be closed again next week if required.

ENDS

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