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Hector’s Dophin

Upokohue

Cephalorhynchus hectori

Hector’s dolphins are the smallest and one of the rarest marine dolphins in the world, with a distinctive rounded dorsal fin.

Where do Hector's Dolphins live?

Hector’s dolphins are found along the coasts of the South Island, especially around Banks Peninsula and Te Waewae Bay.

What's the Difference Between a Hector's and Māui Dolphin?

Hector’s and Māui dolphins may look identical, but they are physically and genetically different. Māui dolphins have very slightly larger skulls than Hector’s dolphins and a longer, wider rostrum or snout. Genetic methods are used to tell the subspecies apart.

The Māui dolphin is critically endangered, while the Hector’s dolphin is endangered.

Our Projects

Tracking the Tākoketai

The Tākoketai black petrel, is a taonga species found only in New Zealand. Each year, these ocean voyagers travel thousands of kilometres across the Pacific, yet return to breed on just two small islands in the Hauraki Gulf.

Project Status:

Active

Location:

Aotea Great Barrier Island

Hidden World of Hector’s & Māui Dolphins

Innovative science is uncovering the hidden lives of the world’s rarest dolphins to better protect them in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Project Status:

Active

Location:

Clifford and Cloudy Bay

Citizens of the Sea

A new citizen science initiative is empowering sailors to map marine biodiversity and ocean health in the Pacific, equipping blue-water sailors with the latest technology to gather important data while at sea.

Project Status:

Active

Location:

Pacific Ocean