Police are asking members of the public to notify them of the location of any containers via the 0800 OIL SPILL number.

Rena is dropping containers into the sea with the ship on a 15-20 degree list.

Officer in charge of the police operation to support Maritime New Zealand, Inspector Karl Wright-St Clair, says even if containers come ashore, they remain the property of the original owners or insurers.

'People shouldn't attempt to open them, as some of them may contain hazardous material and it's also an offence to attempt to open or retrieve any containers.

'If people see any containers, please call 0800 OIL SPILL immediately to give them the location. Ideally, please give them the beach access number that the container is closest to, or any other noticeable landmark.”
Karl says the 0800 OIL SPILL call centre will notify Police and other emergency services and they will respond.

'I can't reiterate enough, please do not attempt to open any of the containers. Not only do they remain the property of the original owners or insurers, they may contain hazardous material and need to be dealt with carefully and appropriately.

He says if people are found to be interfering with containers, they will be dealt with by police, with a view to prosecution.

Seen a container? phone 0800 SUNLIVE with your news tip.

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