Overview
- About 53 long‑finned pilot whales were involved, with most already back at sea, according to Project Jonah.
- Refloat attempts hinge on the next high tide because the group is near the tide line, limiting the available time.
- Volunteers were stood down by about 10pm and plan to resume operations at first light.
- Project Jonah appealed for public help, asking people to bring wetsuits and their own supplies to the site.
- DOC describes Farewell Spit’s gently sloping flats and fast‑falling tides as a natural whale trap along a pilot whale migratory route.