John Cronin BOP Regional Council Chairman www.boprc.govt.nz

It's great now that summer is with us. We all enjoy getting out and about around the harbour and along the coast.

If you're out and about you won't see anything like what we saw this time last year when we were reeling from a ship hitting a reef off the coast and then breaking in two.

We're still feeling its impact. One of the most positive things I've noted all the way through is how well people and agencies worked together and are continuing to do so.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council is continuing to support the Long-Term Environmental Recovery Plan, and studies that will assess the impacts on the environment. Sampling programmes are running during the summer period to better understand the presence of oil, and the impact it has had on marine species.

You may see oil on the beach during summer. As the ship and containers move in the currents and storms, their contents emerge and make their way to shore. Experience tells us we're likely to see small spots or nuggets of oil, not mats of it.

If you do see oil, particularly large bits, we still want to know. Oil can come from other sources so it's important we can sample it to identify where it has come from. Call the Pollution Hotline on 0800 884 883.

On a positive note, I want to mention and congratulate the winners of various business awards held around the region late last year.

Business awards, including the Sustainable Business Awards, all recognise the commitment and passion of the people at the helm and their staff. Well done to all!

Here's hoping the businesses, communities and people of the Bay of Plenty have a successful and rewarding 2013.