The pod of orcas was spotted near Matakana Island yesterday. Photo / Orca Wild Adventures
The pod of orcas was spotted near Matakana Island yesterday. Photo / Orca Wild Adventures
A pod of 10 orcas has been spotted frolicking near Matakana Island.
Mark Tucker from Orca Wild Adventures was tipped off by Dolphin Seafaris yesterday morning to the news that the awaited pod had arrived on Tauranga shores.
Tucker said the "healthy pod" filled with mature males and females andstrong calves chose Pilot Bay as their hunting ground, creating a visual treat for many.
The pod of orcas was spotted near Matakana Island yesterday. Photo / Orca Wild Adventures
The pod had been spotted in Whitianga on Sunday and, as orcas navigate the North Island clockwise, orca lovers knew Tauranga would be their next stopover.
The pod of orcas was spotted near Matakana Island yesterday. Photo / Orca Wild Adventures
So much so, they spent the morning photographing and marvelling at the marine wonders.
He said spring was the time of year they were most active and as their favourite food was stingray, they would likely hunt near islands and beaches.
The "intelligent" creatures had a huge territory and this pod would likely continue south and be spotted in Maketū then in the Napier area later this week, he said.
