A coordinated effort by volunteers, iwi, and conservationists successfully refloated nearly 40 long-finned pilot whales stranded at Ruakākā Beach in Bream Bay on Sunday afternoon. Tragically, four whales died during the stranding, but the remaining pod has so far stayed at sea, offering hope after the intense rescue operation.

Photo: Facebook / Joseph Hack

The stranding was reported at 4:30 pm on Sunday, prompting hundreds of people, including members of Patuharakeke hapū, Project Jonah, and the Department of Conservation (DOC), to rush to the scene. Initially, the pod remained in shallow waters, but as more whales became stranded, rescuers worked tirelessly to stabilise them. Volunteers focused on keeping the whales cool and hydrated, addressing their immediate needs to improve their chances of survival.

By 8 pm, most of the whales had been refloated and were being monitored closely. The success was due to the combined efforts of hundreds of volunteers that headed the SOS call on social media and 30 trained Marine Mammal Medics who responded quickly to the crisis.

Photo: Huhana Lyndon

While the exact cause of the stranding remains unknown, some on social media have suggested that a 2.1 magnitude earthquake recorded under the Hauraki Gulf on Sunday may have contributed to the incident. Pilot whales are known to be sensitive to underwater seismic activity, which can disorient them and potentially lead to strandings.

Four whales that did not survive were left above the high tide mark overnight. Members of Patuharakeke hapū stayed alongside the deceased whales overnight, observing tikanga-based practices to honor them.

Patuharakeke hapū led an overnight watch of the coastline to ensure the refloated whales remained at sea. By Monday morning, no restrandings were reported, which was an encouraging sign given the area’s history as a hotspot for whale and dolphin strandings.

The response to the stranding demonstrated the community’s deep connection to the marine environment. Hundreds of volunteers worked under the guidance of Patuharakeke, Project Jonah, and DOC to save the whales. This collaboration highlighted the strength of community efforts in addressing emergencies affecting marine wildlife.

DOC and Patuharakeke hapū remain at the beach to monitor the situation and ensure the pod’s safety. Locals have been asked to report any whale sightings or signs of restranding immediately by calling 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Although the loss of four whales is a somber reminder of the challenges marine mammals face, the successful rescue of the remaining pod underscores the importance and impact of community-driven conservation efforts.