One of the smallest marine dolphins in the world, Hector’s dolphins grow no more than 1.5 m in length.
Only found in New Zealand’s waters, this distinctive grey dolphin with black and white markings and a round dorsal fin is the most easily recognised species of dolphin in NZ.
Hector’s and Maui’s dolphins are known to Māori by other names, including tutumairekurai, aihe, papakanua, upokohue, tukuperu, tūpoupou and hopuhopu.
Hector's dolphins are named after Sir James Hector, a former curator of the New Zealand National Museum.
Hector’s dolphins are classified as ‘nationally vulnerable’.
Find out what is being done to help Hector's dolphins.
Find out how you can help Hector's dolphins.
View results of the Te Waewae Bay boat surveys and a summary of the information from the Hector’s dolphin incident database.
To increase protection of Hector’s and Maui’s dolphins, four new marine mammal sanctuaries and changes to an existing sanctuary have been proposed. Consultations have now closed.
Hector's dolphin is New Zealand's smallest dolphin. These native dolphins are endangered in New Zealand. Find out how to behave when sharing the water with Hector's.
Dolphins in NZ waters factsheet (PDF, 166K)
Marine Mammal Action Plan 2005-2010 (PDF, 336K)
Sharing our coasts with marine mammals
This brochure summarises the simple rules you need to follow around whales, dolphins or seals.
Marine mammals of NZ poster
Marine and coastal conservation
To report whale or dolphin sightings or strandings phone the DOC HOTline 24 hour emergency number:
0800 DOCHOTline (0800 362 468)
