Source: NZ Department of Conservation
Date: 12 November 2025
DOC South Marlborough Operations Manager Stacey Wren says a large whale disentanglement team of DOC staff and trained volunteers on two boats disentangled the whale as safely as possible this morning.
“The entangled whale was reported to us on Tuesday afternoon. We sent the large whale disentanglement team out at the time, but they couldn’t locate the whale. They were back on the water this morning and successfully freed it.
“The whale was entangled for more than 18 hours and will be extremely tired but appears to be otherwise healthy. We ask that any boats in the area give it space so it can rest and recover.
“We want to thank the wildlife watching tour operators who helped by reporting the whale’s location to us.
“We also appreciate the support we’ve received from Ngāti Kurī, who have a strong connection and relationship with the whales in the area.”
Stacey says people should never attempt to disentangle a whale themselves as it’s very dangerous. Large whale disentanglement can only be done safely with specialised equipment and training.
“Do not approach an entangled whale or attempt to cut any lines entangling it if you see one while out naturing on the water.
“Instead, please report it immediately to our 24-hour hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468). If you can do so safely, monitor the whale from a distance and advise our disentanglement teams exactly where it is.”
Craypot line entanglements mainly involve humpback whales, which are inquisitive, have a large tail and flippers, and often roll so are more vulnerable to getting caught up, Stacey says.
“People setting cray pots can reduce the risk by minimising floating slack in the line, allowing just enough for tidal movements. Not setting pots during June and July, when most humpbacks are migrating along our coasts, would also reduce the risk.
“The procedure for cutting whales free can take several hours. It follows internationally-accepted best practice and is designed to minimise risks to both people and the animal.”
DOC administers the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 and is responsible for leading the management of marine mammal incidents.
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