Mobil has apologised for the fuel oil leak into Tauranga Harbour at Mount Maunganui on Monday.

Technical experts are currently on site carrying out further investigations, but the multinational petrol company has identified the leak which originated from a pipeline during a ship refuelling operation.

The leak originated from a pipe used for refueling. Photos: Supplied.

While the pipeline was quickly shut down and will remain closed until repairs can be carried out, it is as yet unknown how much oil was poured into the water.

In a statement released overnight,Mobil Oil New Zealand Lead Country Manager Andrew McNaught says the company regrets the event.

'We apologise for the incident and for any concern and inconvenience caused to the community,” says Andrew.

'We would like to assure them we are working as quickly as possible to safely manage the situation, to clean up the leaked fuel oil and minimise the impact on the environment.

'Mobil appreciates the efforts of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council in responding promptly and effectively to the incident.

'We will reimburse the Council for any direct costs incurred in the spill response and clean-up.”

There is now little remaining trace of fuel oil on the water following the spill, and clean-up operations are now focused on a section of the nearby beach.

Mobil crews are assisting the Bay of Plenty Regional Council in the response.

Andrew and the company are aware that several boats have been impacted by the fuel oil.

'Mobil is liaising with the local marina operator about boat cleaning procedures,” he adds. 'We recommend that clean-up is handled by an expert.”

Mobil has established a process to deal with claims and will consider claims for damage directly resulting from the leaked oil.

Community queries can be directed to Mobil's community hotline during business hours on: 0800 895 011.