Photo: Supplied / DoC

A stranded juvenile pygmy blue whale, approximately 14-15 meters in length, has been freed.

The whale was first reported to the Department of Conservation on Monday morning, but was freed around 6pm following the removal of the private Schoolhouse Bay Wharf on Kawau Island.

The whale was guided out of the channel and was last seen swimming well in deeper waters, DOC operations manager Kat Lane said.

DOC is also asking the public to report any whale sightings, both in the ocean and along local beaches, over the next few days, as it will be actively monitoring the area for any potential restranding.

Photo: Supplied / DoC

“This was a highly unusual situation, and we worked carefully to free the whale while ensuring the safety of everyone involved,” she said.

“Ngati Manuhiri were an integral part of the mahi today, providing boat support and kaitiaki were alongside us during the day making decisions.

“The whale appeared calm throughout, and we are cautiously pleased with the outcome.”