A boat in a perilous position moored in Tauranga Harbour is drawing attention from locals.

Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters said on Monday afternoon his team was alerted to a boat taking on water on the southern side of the Tauranga Harbour Bridge.

“The cause of the incident is currently unknown, and efforts to contact the boat owner are ongoing,” Peters told SunLive

“The boat has minimal fuel onboard and was unoccupied at the time.”

Peters said the Harbourmaster Team was securing the vessel and ensuring its visibility to other boats; however, it is in shallow water and does not obstruct the shipping channel.

The boat is not yet taking on water but will be soon if something is not done. Photo / Brydie Thompson

Peters said the team would collaborate with the owner to arrange for its removal or do so using authority under the Maritime Transport Act if necessary.

“Boat owners are responsible for maintaining their vessels and are liable for salvage costs if they sink.

“Neglected and poorly maintained older boats are a significant and increasing issue in New Zealand, posing risks to navigation and the environment.

“This scenario is a good reminder for all boat owners to regularly check their vessels on moorings and at anchor.”

A police spokesperson said they were notified of a boat sinking in the harbour about 2.45pm on Monday.

“The harbourmaster was already aware, and there is no further police action being taken.”

The boat is near the Tauranga Harbour Bridge.

A SunLive reader said the boat was on its side, and police and the harbourmaster told her the plan was to try to lift the boat at low tide around 11am.

She was told the boat hadn’t begun taking on water, but it would soon if nothing was done.

A Bay of Plenty Regional Council spokeswoman said they were trying to get in touch with the owners to decide what to do next.