No way to save whales

Some of the 107 pilot whales which died after stranding on remote Mason Beach, Stewart Island,...
Some of the 107 pilot whales which died after stranding on remote Mason Beach, Stewart Island, yesterday. "We didn't have a chance to save them," Doc staff said late last night. Photo by DOC.
About half a pod of 107 pilot whales have died and the remaining whales have been euthanased after stranding in hot, dry conditions at the remote southern end of Mason Bay on Stewart Island.

"We didn't have a chance to save them," Doc biodiversity programme manager Brent Beaven said late last night.

Two overseas trampers discovered the pod of dead and dying whales yesterday morning but it was several hours before they could raise the alarm through the hut ranger at Mason Bay Hut.

Department of Conservation staff immediately flew to the beach to assess the situation.

Mr Beaven said about half of the whales were still alive when the two staff arrived at the 10km-long beach, accessible only by air.

"However ... it would be at least 10-12 hours before we could attempt to refloat them and .. many more would soon perish," Mr Beaven added.

With just five people on site and the tide on its way out, Doc saw little hope of keeping the animals alive until enough rescuers could be flown in to assist, he said.

Doc Southern Islands area manager Andy Roberts said a storm warning for the area had added to the dangers of attempting a refloat.

"We were worried we would be endangering the lives of staff and volunteers ..."

Mr Roberts said.

As a result the decision was made to euthanase the 48 remaining pilot whales.

"Euthanasia is a difficult decision but is made purely for the welfare of the animal involved," he said.

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