Mass whale stranding in Golden Bay

Six pilot whales have died and 15 returned to the beach at Farewell Spit this morning after a pod of 55 were stranded on Thursday afternoon.

Project Jonah says the rest of the pod has made its way back out to sea.

"Beaches across Golden Bay have been checked for whales this morning. Of the 55 whales that stranded yesterday, 15 have restranded and six have been found deceased," a Project Jonah spokesperson said.

Volunteers and Department of Conservation staff are keeping the remaining whales cool and comfortable until the high tide on Friday afternoon.

Project Jonah says the group is near the tideline so there will only be a small window to attempt a refloat.

The organisation is welcoming any help from the public, with a plea for people to bring wetsuits and their own supplies.

Those working at the site were stood down by 10pm on Thursday and returned at first light.

The Department of Conservation said Farewell Spit, where whales frequently strand at the top of the South Island, "is a naturally occurring "whale trap" that occurs along a migratory route for long-finned pilot whales in New Zealand".

People tending to the whales at Farewell Spit yesterday. Photo: Supplied / Project Jonah

"The spit hooks around the northern entrance into Golden Bay forming extensive intertidal sand flats flanked by gently shelving waters offshore. Whales may be easily deceived and caught out by the gently sloping tidal flats and a rapidly falling tide.

"Pilot whales have strong social bonds and if one whale heads into shallow water, the rest of the pod will follow due to their natural instinct to look after one another.

"We will continue keeping the whales cool and comfortable through the morning and are aiming for a refloat on this afternoon’s high tide. These whales have restranded along the high tide line, which adds to the complexity of the refloat.

"If you are able to come and help (on Friday), please be aware that only people in wetsuits will be able to assist with the refloat this afternoon.

"If you do not have a wetsuit, you can still help this morning, but please follow all guidance given, as we do not want to overcrowd the whales."

Project Jonah said the conditions at Farewell Spit can be harsh, with strong sun and high winds, and there are no food or drink facilities at the spit.