SPECTACULAR WHALE CHASE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 2598, 26 June 1923, Page 2

SPECTACULAR WHALE CHASE.

Residents of Picton were treated to a spectacular whale chase right at their front doors on Tuesday, a huge mammal being dispatched after an exciting pursuit by whaleboats in clear view of the town. The unusual spectacle attracted large crowds of people to the wharf, while all vantage points along the foreshore and on the adjacent hills were eagerly sought and some of the more adventurous put oil in boats and launches to obtain a closer view of the process of modem whaling. Two whales had entered the Tory Channel during Monday night, and were lirst seen earlyon Tuesday morning, heading towards Picton by the Maoris at Waikawa. Tbe Perano whaling station a t Te Awaiti was immediately communicated with by telephone. The whalers lost no time in taking up the pursuit (states a correspondent). They came upon the whales near Sunshine Bay, and one was driven towards Picton, while the other sought refuge Bay. The whaling boats manoeuvred round for some time. Tbe first whale was bombed near Mabel Island in full view of tbe townsfolk. Waikawa Bay bad meanwhile been carefully \ guarded, and shortly before noon tlie whale came up to spout, and was killed opposite “The Snout.” The captures bring the total up to six for the present season.