Stranded NZ whales lost

MORE than 20 pilot whales are reported to have died in a mass stranding at a remote beach on New Zealand’s South Island.

According to conservation group Project Jonah on Facebook, 32 whales were found stranded on the West Coast beach south of Haast on Wednesday, with only 11 left alive.

The group said they were still awaiting further information as the remote location meant communications were poor.

“What a sorry sight – up to 33 whales lying dead or dying,” the post read.