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Review of dusky dolphin watching, Kaikoura

Background

The Department of Conservation is undertaking a review of dusky dolphin watching and swimming at Kaikoura, ahead of the expiry in November 2009 of a 10-year moratorium on new permits for commercial dolphin viewing. The moratorium was put in place following earlier research found dolphin behaviour was being affected by boating activities.

Swimmers with a pod of dusky dolphins.
Swimmers with a pod of dusky
dolphins

In anticipation of the moratorium ending, the Department of Conservation commissioned a three-year scientific research programme into the effects of tourism on dusky dolphins.

The research finished in June 2009. The Department is now seeking public feedback on the study's findings and recommendations, and the future management of dusky dolphin watching at Kaikoura, before completing its review.

The scientists will present their research results and recommendations at a public forum on 3 August 2009 at the Kaikoura Bowling Club, Ludstone Road, Kaikoura, commencing 7pm.

Objectives

The study's overall objective was to investigate and assess the effects of current and potential future tourism activity (boats, swimmers and aircraft) on dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) at Kaikoura. Specific objectives were to:

1. Quantify and document the type, frequency and geographical extent of dusky dolphin tourism activities at Kaikoura, including noncommercial marine mammal viewing, as well as compliance with current regulations;

2. Examine short-term effects of existing tourism on behaviour and welfare of dusky dolphins at Kaikoura;

3. Assess the possible significance of any observed behavioural changes on the Kaikoura dusky dolphin population;

4. Assess the likely effects of any future expansion in commercial dusky dolphin viewing/swimming effort at Kaikoura, including any greater activity south of the Conway River mouth; and

5. Provide scientific advice to the Department of Conservation on the management of existing tourism effort, and options for mitigating adverse effects.

View the report