The Transport Accident Investigation Commission is working with other agencies to establish an exclusion zone around the wreck of the charter boat PeeJay V, which sank after catching fire off Whakatane on Monday (18 Jan 16).
The Commission is also issuing a preservation and protection order under section 12 (1) (C) and (d) of the Accident Transport and Investigation Commission Act 1990 to prohibit people tampering with the wreck and debris.
The investigation team completed its initial evidence gathering in Whakatane today (21 Jan).
The team intends to contact passengers next week.