Many a whale passes through Te Ara a Kiwa (Foveaux Strait) and with this comes the inevitable whale strandings. Plans to hold a hui in Southland around this subject began a couple of years ago, and finally came to fruition during the last weekend of June. The hui was held at Takutai o te Tītī Marae at Colac Bay (where a southern right whale calf was born last winter), on June 28-30. During the planning of the hui, there was a clear consensus to update the local stranding plan and include opportunities for learning.
Consequently, a range of people were invited to talk and share their knowledge including tohunga tohorā, Ramari Stewart and kaimahi tohorā, Zelda McIntyre. Dr Stuart Hunter from Massey University demonstrated a necropsy on a dead fur seal – although the seal was still a little frozen (-3o frost overnight) and explained how they could often determine cause of death by looking inside the animal.
Discussions were held around euthanasia and when it might be considered an option, and what methods might be used. Jim Campbell from the Department of Conservation (DOC) Whanganui showed the participants the sperm whale euthanasia device and Grame Miller (DOC) talked about the newly-developed method of pericranial implosion for large baleen whales. Sophie White and colleagues from the University of Otago added their observations and experiences from strandings, and reinforced their offer of assistance if it’s ever needed.
Emma Burns from Otago Museum, along with Jim Fyfe and Hinerangi from Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki talked about their successful collaboration with the leopard seal Autahi, now on display at Otago Museum. Dr Emma Carroll from Auckland University presented a scenario for the future for Southern right whales. She identified some issues that we all need to think about including shipstrike, tourism and coastal development. DOC staff Jim Fyfe and Ros Cole talked about the critically endangered NZ sea lion in Otago and Southland, and discussed opportunities to increase awareness about the species.
A final fun activity included training in refloating of whales, using the pontoons and Wally, the inflatable whale, who was a hit with some of the younger participants The hui was made a success due to the willingness of everybody to listen, share and participate. David Higgins did a fantastic job facilitating and the kai was spectacular – tītī, crayfish and mussels. A big high-five to Ōraka Aparima rūnaka, Muriel Johnston and the waka ama crew for an outstanding job.
Jane Davis, Shona Fordyce with Russell and Anne Beck.
Dr Stuart Hunter demonstrating a necropsy on a fur seal.