Dozens of pilot whales stranded on Wairarapa coast

At least 20 pilot whales have stranded in two pods along the Ngawi coast near Cape Palliser. The Department of Conservation (DOC) and Project Jonah are responding to the event. While some reports state at least 20 whales are involved, others estimate the number could be as high as 50.

Four whales from the first pod were reported alive as officials prepared to attempt a refloat during the 2:30pm high tide on Thursday. A second pod further down the coast was being assessed by authorities. Volunteers and local iwi, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, worked to assist the animals.

Witnesses described a difficult scene on the rocky and gravelly coastline. Former South Wairarapa mayor Alex Baijen reported seeing many dead whales floating near Mangatoetoe Beach.

The stranding is believed to have occurred during the previous night's high tide. Some whales were reported to have sustained injuries from the rocky shore. Project Jonah mobilised medics to work alongside DOC and iwi to manage the response.

How it developed

• Thu 5 Nov, 12:47pmAlex Baijen reported that volunteers successfully refloated approximately five pilot whales, though they did not return to sea.

Where reports differ

• Reports vary on the total number of whales, with some citing at least 20 and others estimating up to 50

Compiled from reports by The Post, 1News, Stuff, Otago Daily Times and NZ Herald.