Weather conditions are about to change at the scene of the container ship Rena in the Bay of Plenty.

Over the last few days the wind has been blowing in from the nor’ east and swells have reportedly been up to 3 or 4 metres. This has added to the problems in the area, on board the ship and the oil coming up on local beaches.

Westerlies are about to arrvive and a little more gentle in nature by this afternoon with clearing skies and perhaps just the odd shower is possible still.The northeast swell should gradually ease but it may take its time in doing so. Westerly quarter winds are likely to prevail over the next day or 2 and potentially small gusts could take place but winds and swells should continue to ease further by tomorrow night.