Where's the Govt as Japanese whaling fleet sails?

In light of reports the Japanese whaling fleet has set sail for the Southern Ocean, the Green Party is calling on the Government to send an offshore patrol vessel to monitor the whale hunt and ensure the safety of protest vessels.

"The continued slaughter of whales is unacceptable and our Government should do everything it can to help end this abhorrent practice," said Green Party oceans spokesperson Gareth Hughes.

Mr Hughes was reacting to reports that three ships, with beefed-up security, set sail from Shimonoseki in western Japan, thought to be headed to the Southern Ocean for the annual whale hunt. The fleet reportedly aims to catch around 900 minke and fin whales this season.

"Our Government says it is committed to saving whales, but doesn't have a plan to commit any resources to do so," said Mr Hughes.

"We need more than just words to save the whales.

"Diplomatic pressure has failed, and the case against Japan in the International Court of Justice will take some time to resolve. At this point in time, the best thing the Government can do to save the whales is to ensure the safety of protest vessels trying to stop the hunt."

Mr Hughes said last year's protest action, not diplomacy, caused the Japanese whaling fleet to retreat having caught only 30-100 minkes, far short of their quota of up to 935.

"Given the dangers of protest action, highlighted last year by the clash between the Ady Gill protest boat and a Japanese whaler, our Government should send a Navy vessel to act as an independent observer of the whale hunt.

"The presence of a New Zealand patrol vessel would serve as a restraint on all parties while signalling to the Japanese Government our serious wish to protect these rare and wonderful marine mammals.

"The Japanese Government is reportedly spending millions of dollars on guards to protect its ships and it is important that the New Zealand Government protects the rights and safety of protestors by sending an offshore vessel as well," said Mr Hughes.