A Royal New Zealand Navy vessel has spilled hundreds of litres of oil into Akaroa Harbour.

“We’re aware of an incident in Akaroa Harbour where the anchored Royal New Zealand Navy vessel, HMNZS Te Kaha, has spilt an estimated 200–300 litres of lubricating oil into the harbour," Environment Canterbury said in a statement.

It was notified immediately by the New Zealand Defence Force and is now working alongside it to monitor and support clean up efforts, Environment Canterbury said.

“If you see or smell oil, please stay away from the affected area and report any sightings or concerns to our pollution hotline – 0800 POLLUTE (0800 765 588).

“If you observe any affected wildlife, please do not touch it, instead keep a safe distance and call us on the number above.”

The Defence Force has been contacted for comment.

Canterbury Hits radio host Connor Kitto said his girlfriend had spotted the oil slick from her family bach nearby.

The spill came from the HMNZS Te Kaha. Photo / US NAVY

Kitto said an oil slick could be seen across the surface of the water, with multiple boats nearby using some type of net that seemed to be meant for cleaning up the oil.

The navy vessel had left by that point, he said.

Kitto said it was “not good enough” and while he did not know the cause of the oil spill, he hoped there would be some type of compensation for “protecting our taonga and the marine environment” that would be put in place.