Rescuers are struggling to save the survivors of a pod of 80 pilot whales which beached themselves in New Zealand.

Conservation Department spokesman Trish Grant said nine whales died today and more deaths were expected overnight because unfavourable tides meant it would be morning before there was any chance of returning them to the sea.

About 30 whales beached themselves at Golden Bay, near the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island.

They were among a larger pod, and rescuers turned away four whales but were unable stop more from stranding.

More than 100 rescuers, including tourists, attempted to keep the whales cool during the late afternoon and evening, but nine died on the beach.