Maritime staff are working to pull free a ship that's run aground off the Coromandel Peninsula.
The vessel became stuck on Monday night near Red Mercury Island/Whakau, about 8km off the coast.
"Coastguard rescued the people on board and who are now safe," the Waikato Regional Council said in a statement.
The risk of fuel escaping the vessel was likely to be low, the council said on Tuesday.
"Should any escape, it is likely to disperse quickly and not cause any environmental impact.
"Salvage of the vessel has been organised by the vessel owner and insurance company and should be completed tonight."
