The Bay of Plenty Regional Council is asking people to respect a protection order issued over the Pee Jay V which sunk off the Whakatane coastline earlier this week.

As part of its inquiry, The Transport Accident Investigation Commission issued the protection order over the sunken vessel today in order to preserve and protect evidence.

A protection order has been issued over the Pee Jay V which sunk off the Whakatane coastline on Tuesday. Photo: Maree Wills Photography.

Sixty passenger and crew were forced to abandon ship after a fire broke out in the engine room of the 75ft launch which was returning from a tour of White Island on Tuesday, at about 3.45pm.

The passenger and crew were rescued by the Coastguard and local boaties, while four people were treated in hospital for minor injuries.

The protect order issued today prohibits any person from accessing any evidence relating to the fire and sinking of Pee Jay V. This includes evidence that may be relevant in establishing the circumstances and causes of the accident.

The remains of the boat are currently positioned at 370 55.955' S, 1770 00.596' E, or approximately 800 yards (731.5m) northwest of Kohi Point.

Other evidence is also likely to wash up on local beaches too.

The Commission is calling for any person who sees evidence relating to the accident to not touch the items but instead contact them on 04-473-3112.

This order will be in place for the duration of the Commission's inquiry.