DOC's work with Hector’s dolphin

DOC ranger Al Hutt dolphin-spotting off
Banks Peninsula, Canterbury

• The Banks Peninsula marine mammal sanctuary in Canterbury was established in 1988 primarily to reduce set-net deaths of Hector’s dolphins in the area.
• The Marine Mammals Protection Regulations were introduced in 1992 to control marine mammal tourism activities.
• Set-net controls were introduced to Canterbury in 2002 and in west coast North Island in 2003.
• Research and scientific studies continue to increase our knowledge about each sub-species’ ecology, conservation status, life history, and threats.
• Improved management practices are continually being sought for these dolphins in an attempt to ensure their survival into the future.