Fifty-three pilot whales have stranded on Farewell Spit this evening, prompting an urgent response from conservation teams. Reported by 1news.
Project Jonah said the pod was first seen earlier this afternoon swimming in shallow waters and moving towards the sand spit.
Local medics were quickly deployed to the area, working alongside Department of Conservation staff, boat crews, and Manawhenua Ki Mohua representatives.
“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,” Project Jonah said.
The marine mammal protection organisation added that volunteers were assisting by helping to keep the stranded whales cool as conditions remained challenging. The area is exposed and windy, and support efforts are expected to continue until sunset.
“Wetsuits are recommended as it is windy and exposed. If coming to help please bring your own supplies as it is an isolated location,” the organisation said.
Farewell Spit is known as a hotspot for whale strandings due to its long, shallow sandbanks, which can disorient marine mammals.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while coordinating rescue and welfare efforts.
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