It has been a very sad , emotional and spiritual day in Aotearoa . Some of the posts from the young people with toa are heart wrenching . Every time I read a beautiful post someone posts another .
In his last hour of toa’s life , Ingrid called the young volunteers who had cared for toa into the water , including Ben who had been by Toa’s side since the stranding . They wrapped their arms under and around his little body , to cradle him in the water . He died under a full moon, peacefully and surrounded by love .
I haven’t seen videos of the farewell /blessing ceremony but I imagine that will be kept private . He has been buried on private costal land owned by Ngāti Toa in a beautiful spot at the entrance to the Wellington harbour channel .
At the end of the day .., Another beautiful orca cloud was photographed in the Wellington sky and someone posted it was Toa’s spirit calling to his pod to let them know he was safe . My heart is truly aching
Have not heard from Dr ingrid yet but I am sure she will post when she feels able to .