In the waters of Hauraki Gulf off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand, a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier suffered a rupture in its fuel tank while at anchor, causing approximately 6 metric tons of diesel to leak into the sea and forming an oil slick spanning 2 square kilometers. The affected area is part of a marine protected area and serves as a habitat for seabirds, seals, shellfish, and other marine life. The floating oil can adhere to the bodies of marine organisms, poisoning them and damaging the coastal ecosystem.
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