More than 50 pilot whales have stranded across two sites on Farewell Spit.
Photo: Supplied / Project Jonah
More than 50 pilot whales have stranded on Farewell Spit, as volunteers work to rescue them.
Project Jonah New Zealand said on its Facebook page that, “Early this afternoon we were notified of a pod of whales swimming in the shallows and heading towards Farewell Spit.
“Our local medics responded alongside Department of Conservation staff and boat and Manawhenua Ki Mohua but despite best efforts, 53 pilot whales have stranded across two sites on Farewell Spit.”
The Department of Conservation said in a statement that “There will be people out with the whales until dark tonight and then people will be back out at first light.”
Volunteers are being sought to help the whales Thursday evening.
“We welcome help at Farewell Spit this evening keeping the whales cool until sunset,” Project Jonah said. “Wetsuits are recommended as it is windy and exposed. If coming to help please bring your own supplies as it is an isolated location.”
DOC said that Farewell Spit, where whales frequently strand, “is a naturally occurring “whale trap” that occurs along a migratory route for long-finned pilot whales in New Zealand”.
“The spit hooks around the northern entrance into Golden Bay forming extensive intertidal sand flats flanked by gently shelving waters offshore. Whales may be easily deceived and caught out by the gently sloping tidal flats and a rapidly falling tide.
“Pilot whales have strong social bonds and if one whale heads into shallow water, the rest of the pod will follow due to their natural instinct to look after one another.”
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