More oil from the wrecked containership Rena is washing up on popular recreational beaches along New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty.

Storms at sea are sending the oil ashore while delaying the massive operation to remove containers from Costamare’s 3,032-teu Rena (built 1990).

Most of the Rena's deck is now clear of containers.

New Zealanders take to the beaches over the Christmas – New Year holiday so more oil coming ashore poses a threat to revellers.

Meanwhile