Project Jonah offers Taranaki locals a chance to learn to save whales

A group of trainees practice their skills.

New Zealand has more strandings of live whales and dolphins than any other country, says Project Jonah general manager, Daren Grover.

He says while some of the animals involved are sick or injured, others are healthy and simply need a helping hand to get back out to sea.

This is where Project Jonah comes in, he says.

"Saving whales isn't as easy as it looks. A stranding site is a dangerous place, and people can sometimes make mistakes. It's important people understand the complexity of strandings, why they happen, and what they can do to help."

Since its inception over 40 years ago, Project Jonah has responded to whale strandings all over New Zealand. Always on standby, it is ready to respond anytime and anywhere.

Project Jonah needs trained volunteers across the country, and is looking for more in Taranaki.

In April, Project Jonah is bringing a Marine Mammal Medic course to New Plymouth, where locals can learn new skills to help save whales.

The course is open to able-bodied people over 15.

Daren says even if people aren't able to do the course, they can still support Project Jonah by making a regular or one-off donation.

"Now 44 years old, Project Jonah exists largely thanks to the generosity of members of the public and small businesses. We wouldn't survive without the kindness of the New Zealand public."

● Marine Mammal Medic course: $120 per adult, or $85 per student. New Plymouth, Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28. (Course is one day long, with two dates available)
www.projectjonah.org.nz for more details.