Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Date: 19 July 2021
DOC and its operation partners are hopeful that the orca can be transferred back to the sea pen late this afternoon, weather dependent.
The bad weather conditions over the weekend meant the orca remained in the temporary pool. It remains stable after successful feeding.
Last Sunday (11 July) the orca calf was stranded on rocks near Plimmerton, north of Wellington. An ongoing operation to care for the orca calf is being led by the Department of Conservation (DOC) with support from Orca Research Trust/Whale Rescue Trust, local iwi Ngāti Toa Rangatira and the local community.
Ian Angus, DOC Marine Species Manager, says the focus of today is to try and transfer the orca back to the sea pen, weather permitting.
DOC, veterinarians and Whale Rescue/Orca Research Trust are receiving regular advice from international orca experts and veterinarians – information proving vital as decisions are made.
There have been sightings of orca pods over the weekend.
Updates on the stranded juvenile orca in Porirua
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