New Zealand is a hotspot for marine mammals, with almost half the world's whale and dolphin species found here. Hunting in the early 19th century drastically reduced populations of whales. Nowadays whales are protected, cameras have replaced harpoons and encounters with these majestic animals are increasingly common.
Learn about New Zealand's most common whale species: humpback, southern right and sperm whales.
Find out about the two different families whales can belong to.
Whale watching is a thriving tourism industry in New Zealand. Species you might see include sperm, humpback, southern right, pilot, orca, and Bryde's whales.
Find out about the significance of whales in Māori culture and the history of whaling in New Zealand.
The conservation of whales in the 21st century
Stranded whales and dolphins: how you can help
Sharing our coasts with marine mammals - simple rules to follow around whales, dolphins or seals.
Whales in the South Pacific
Whales around Wellington
Marine and coastal conservation
Kaikoura sperm whale tourism review
To report whale or dolphin sightings or strandings phone the DOC HOTline 24 hour emergency number:
0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468)
Contacts