Department of Conservation investigating after whale dies in Kaikōura area and another is injured

The Department of Conservation is investigating after one whale was injured and another died at the top of the South Island during the new year period. Photo / Whale Watch Kaikoura

The Department of Conservation (DoC) is investigating after one whale was injured and another found dead at the top of the South Island during the new year period.

South Marlborough operations manager Gavin Finch said a tour operator reported an injured sperm whale in the Kaikōura region on December 29.

“We’re currently assessing the injuries from the photos provided. We don’t know when or how the whale was injured,” he said.

“There have been rough conditions recently so few vessels have been on the water but we’re hopeful the whale will be seen in the coming days now conditions are calmer.”

Finch said a separate fishing vessel passing through the Kaikōura area on New Year’s Day reported seeing a dead whale from a distance.

“They couldn’t identify the species and did not take photos. At this stage, there’s nothing to suggest this is the same whale,” he said.

“If anyone knows how this whale was injured or is boating in the Kaikōura area and sees the injured or dead whale, please report it to 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).”

Finch said DoC would like photos and/or video of the animal and any details of the sighting, including the time, GPS co-ordinates and sea conditions.

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