13 Sep 2023

Pygmy blue whale found dead west of Levin

From Morning Report, 8:50 am on 13 September 2023

A local iwi in the Horowhenua says burying the remains of a dead whale was a sad occasion, but a useful lesson for their young people.

A large New Zealand pygmy blue whale was found dead on the sands of Hokio Beach west of Levin.

Dean Wilson, environmental manager for the Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, says after a short wananga, the decision was made to bury the tohora (whale) in the dunes behind the high-tide mark.

Wilson spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.