Mobil Oil New Zealand has responded to the news that Bay of Plenty Regional Council have commenced prosecution against them – and have pledged reimbursements and costs of $1.79 million in relation April's oil spill in Tauranga Harbour

Following confirmation this morning that Bay of Plenty Regional Council had begun legal proceedings, the matter will be brought before Tauranga District Court on 26 November.

Mobil personnel assisted with the clean-up. Photo: Supplied.

In a direct response to the prosecution, Country Manager Andrew McNaught says: 'Mobil apologises for the incident. We deeply regret that it occurred and the impact it had on the community.”

'We have worked hard since April to rectify and minimise the impacts of the leak to the local environment.

'Following the release of an estimated 1500 litres of heavy fuel oil on April 27, Mobil took immediate steps to respond.

'We worked cooperatively with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council to actively assist in the response, and have committed significant resources to clean up and restore the affected areas in Tauranga Harbour.”

Mobil also confirm they have committed to reimbursement and other costs of $1.79 million, including reimbursing council for over $836,000 in clean-up costs.

'We have cooperated fully with the council throughout clean-up operations and their investigation,” adds Andrew.

With the matter now before the Courts, Mobil says they will not make any further comment with respect to the legal process underway.