Three containers were removed yesterday from the stern of the containership Rena aground on Astrolabe Reef.

Three empty containers were lifted by crane from Rena's stern onto the onto the barge Sea Tow 60.

Calm weather at the reef means the operation will continue today, says Martime New Zealand spokesperson Ross Henderson.

A media trip on board the patrol boat HMNZS Pukaki is planned today to allow filming and photography of the container removal operation.

There have been no fresh reports of oiling on beaches overnight, and operations will continue in other areas today

Teams of spill responders remain on standby and ready to swing into action should any more oil come ashore.