What's expected to be a bumper cruise industry season begins tomorrow with the arrival of the 116,000 tonne Sapphire Princess.

Poor conditions may prevent the rescue of a second whale entangled in rope today.

DOC staff are investigating reports of another 12-15 metre humpback whale caught in rope and plastic in the Far North.

A large humpback whale which was tangled in rope off the Far North coast has been freed this afternoon.

Department of Conservation staff attempting to free a humpback whale tangled in ropes in Doubtless Bay in the Far North have called off the operation for the night.

DOC staff will attempt to remove ropes around a whale in Doubtless Bay - if they can find it.