Drones are being used to conduct aerial observations of a grounded fishing vessel in Banks Peninsula.

The 25 metre Austro Carina ran aground at Red Bluff, and had about 10,000 litres of diesel and 400 litres of hydraulic oil on board.

The spill is close to marine reserves which are home to protected species such as the little blue penguin and Hector's dolphins.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission is investigating.

Environment Canterbury's regional on-scene commander Emma Parr spoke to Charlie Dreaver