Orca update

Department of Conservation Marine Ecosystems Manager Kirstie Knowles says it is unlikely any attempt to reunite would take place today.

"The calf remains stable at this stage and we're continuing to work through different options as we learn more about the calf and his condition. All decisions will draw on the best national and international expert advice with the welfare and ethics of caring for the orca at the front of mind."

"Public access to the boat club remains restricted as we all look to minimise stress on the calf."

The calf has now been away from his pod for over a week after becoming stranded on rocks near Plimmerton, north of Wellington. An ongoing operation to care for the orca calf is being led by DOC with support from Orca Research Trust/Whale Rescue Trust, local iwi Ngāti Toa Rangatira, and the local community.

Updates on the stranded juvenile orca in Porirua

View all updates on the stranded orca

Report orca pod sightings

/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).View in full here.