Authorities keeping close eye on whaling ship

The owners of the Japanese whale research vessel that caught fire in the Southern Ocean claim there is no danger of fuel or oil leaking from the ship at this stage.

One crew member remains unaccounted for and is assumed dead after the blaze, which appears to have broken out in the processing area of the Nisshin Maru.

The Institute of Cetacean Research says crew members attempted to enter the sealed area that contained the fire but the smoke and heat was too intense.

They are denying reports of an explosion shortly before the fire. Spokesman Glenn Inwood says a full investigation will be carried out and a decision will be made on whether to continue the research programme over the summer.

Maritime New Zealand spokesman Steve Corbett says New Zealand authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation.

- NEWSTALK ZB