The situation of MV Rena oil spill seems to be at its worst on Wednesday. Massive oil spills have been observed on Tuesday and it was reported the ship already leaked out 130 to 350 tonnes of oil. New Zealand locals are finding ways on how to immediately clean up the oil spill but the weather is not cooperating. The weather forecast reported that the weather will get better in a few days.

However, prolonged exposure to these hazardous substances will increase the damages to the environment.

Though the NZ oil spill is just a small disaster compared to world’s worst oil spills, it is still alarming because of the pristine nature of New Zealand’s bay. It is known to be rich in wetlands, marine reserves, and has an abundant marine life with whales, penguins, rare sea birds, and dolphins.

Dark and thick toxic waste covered the shore. Local residents woke up on Wednesday seeing dead fishes and birds on the coasts.

“I can smell it from my house,” says Peter Cramond, a local resident residing 400 meters away from the beach. “I haven’t slept all night knowing what’s happening here to all the bird and sea life. It’s horrible.”

Oil in the environment ingested by marine animals can cause different ecological problems. Basically, it can cause poisoning of wildlife even at the highest level of food chain depending on the amount of oil ingested and taken into their tissues.

NZ oil spills can also affect and interfere with animal breeding, damage animals’ lungs, skin, nasal cavities, and can suppress their immune system. Turtles and marine mammals’ can also suffer from eye problems and even blindness. Coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass, and estuaries can also be affected and destroyed which can cause breeding problems to small fishes and other marine creatures.

Birds, on the other hand, are also affected by the NZ Oil spill. Oil stuck on their fur or feathers can cause health problems like hypothermia which can destroy their insulation and waterproof properties of their wings. Immune system of these birds can also be suppressed which can make them an easy target for predators. Oiled feathers weigh more and can make it difficult for the birds to spread their wings and make them sink and drown.

Maritime New Zealand already formed their team to clean up the toxic wastes and oil spill from MV Rena. At the same time, local residents also created a team to help in cleaning despite the public health warning to stay away from the shore.