Awakino oil spill report

Report: TR 2011/20

Author: D Lovatt

Abstract

This report provides a technical summary of operations surrounding the recovery of used bunker oil following a truck and articulated trailer rollover on State Highway 3 in the Awakino Gorge. Tank rupture on the trailer unit released a substantial amount (approximately 20,000 litres) of waste oil into the Awakino River within 12 kilometres of the coastal marine area (CMA).

The interaction between a number of agencies and the oil recovery response under two different pieces of legislation is discussed in this report. Oil spill response capabilities and authority under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) and the Maritime
Transport Act 1994 (MTA) legislation are somewhat different. Processes and procedures are examined for suitability and effectiveness with recommendations made to address issues. Restrictions imposed by working in an isolated area dominated work practices and provided challenges to well established practices and responders involved.

Wildlife and environmental impacts observed to date, including test procedures and results, also form part of this report as a comprehensive collation of events surrounding the Awakino spill.