Swells have dislodged the Black Cat Cruises boat that grounded on Saturday from its spot on the rocks at an Akaroa bay.
Dozens of passengers had to be rescued from the vessel – no injuries were reported.
An update from Environment Canterbury said the boat was now sitting higher up on the beach at Nīkau Palm Valley Bay. Its previous location on the rocks had prevented recovery crews from moving it.
Further movements were expected in the coming days, which would "settle through the tidal cycle."
The salvage plan was being adapted as the movement changed the recovery options available.
"We expect that less internal debris will be released, making collection more straightforward and minimising environmental impact.
"All parties involved continue to be committed to the removal of the wreck in its entirety from this sensitive area."
On Sunday, Environment Canterbury said the boat was carrying 2240 litres of marine diesel fuel on board and around 120 litres of other oils in sealed containers and engines combined.
It likely lost all marine diesel fuel it was carrying, Environment Canterbury said.
On Thursday morning, the response team noticed a crested penguin that seemed unwell.
Environment Canterbury said its wildlife team tried to catch the bird to "to assess its welfare and whether its behaviour was due to contact with oil".
However, the penguin evaded the team and, as any further attempts might cause it distress, it was decided to keep observing the bird as well as any other distressed wildlife.
A 200m exclusion zone around the site remained in place, with people urged to respect restrictions to keep themselves and responders safe.
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