A rahui is in place at Christchurch's Birdlings Flat Beach following the death of a pilot whale

The whale was spotted near Lake Ellesmere by a member of the public around 8.30 yesterday morning.

The call was made to euthanise the mammal after crews were unable to re-float it, and it began to suffer.

Ngati Irakehu and Ngai Te Ruahikihi ki Taumutu says it was a sad day for their whanau, who worked alongside DOC, Project Jonah and the community to try refloat their taonga.

They say a rahui has been placed as a sign of respect.