The authorities are monitoring the area which is home to large numbers of marine mammals. Most at risk are fur seals and birds, officials said. Tourists from all over the world visit Kaikoura, which has the draw of whales feeding near the shore. We have been on site all day and will remain until we ensure the environmental effects are minimised. Officials have warned the fishing industry to avoid the area, and a temporary ban has also been placed on fish and shellfish by the Kaikoura District Council.
Locals rally round Local people rallied around to help during the clean-up.
The ocean is very important to almost everyone that lives up there so something like this means people offer to help in any way they can. Health officials hope the slow-release characteristics of the poison will prevent serious harm to wildlife. Although there is no threat to humans from the poison, local health authorities have said anyone showing symptoms of sore skin or vomiting should go to the hospital, the Herald reported. Cold War enemies strengthen ties WWII oil threatens Pacific atoll Links to more Asia-Pacific stories are at the foot of the page.