A kaitiaki (guardian) on Motiti island in the Bay of Plenty, says there are a couple of small positives to oil and debris from the Rena, polluting the foreshore and sea near the island.
The 47 thousand tonne vessel grounded on Astrolabe reef off the coast of Tauranga on 5 October, spilling oil into the sea.
Since then some 30 people on Motiti island, the closest settlement to the ship, have not been able to eat local kaimoana.
Kaitiaki John Nuku says that's frustrating, but at least paua, kina and crayfish have had the chance to recuperate.
He says it should also be very peaceful and quiet during Christmas, whereas usually boats are out every day near the island.
Mr Nuku says families on Motiti expect to hear soon when kaimoana will be safe to eat.