Home / New ZealandStranded whales euthanisedTeuila FuataiAPNZ·6 Jan, 2014 02:48 AMQuick ReadSubscribe to listenAccess to Herald Premium articles require a Premium subscription. Subscribe now to listen.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Sign in hereListening to articles is free for open-access content—explore other articles or learn more about text-to-speech.SaveShareShare this articleCopy LinkEmailFacebookTwitter/XLinkedInRedditPhoto / File / ThinkstockPhoto / File / ThinkstockTwenty-seven pilot whales beached at the top of the South Island overnight have been euthanised.The whales were part of a larger pod, which became stranded at Farewell Spit in Golden Bay yesterday. Department of Conservation's Golden Bay conservation services manager John Mason said 12 of the 39 whales died overnight. The remaining ones had been euthanised after experts assessed it highly unlikely they could be successfully refloated, he said.The whales would be moved above the high water mark once the tide allowed it, Mr Mason said.AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME."They'll be allowed to deteriorate naturally.''It was not uncommon for whales to become stranded at Farewell Spit. In November 2012, 28 whales died after becoming stranded in the area, and in January that year more than 80 perished after a mass stranding of 99 pilot whales.Send your story, photos or videos here.AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.SaveShareShare this articleCopy LinkEmailFacebookTwitter/XLinkedInRedditLatest from New ZealandNew ZealandAmazon Web Services outage disrupts major apps and streaming platforms20 Oct 09:19 AMNew Zealand'Done my dash': Councillor ends 15-year run after losing seat20 Oct 06:22 AMCrime'Modern-day slavery' trial begins for man accused of exploiting immigrants, rape20 Oct 06:00 AMSponsoredPoor sight leaving kids vulnerable22 Sep 01:23 AMAdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.