An unmanned yacht run aground on the south-western shore of Motuhoura (Whale Island) near Whakatane is being checked for pollutants.

Bay of Plenty Regional harbour Master Peter Buell says the 47 foot ferro-cement hulled pilothouse cutter was left unmanned sometime on Thursday.

Motuhoura (Whale Island) near Whakatane.

The vessel dragged its anchor and is now ashore, lying on its port side with the deck almost awash at low tide.

Peter says so far there is no evidence of oil in the water, but some debris has been spotted on the shoreline.

It will not be possible to remove the 600 litres of diesel on board until low water on Saturday, shortly before midday, he says.