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Observations of interactions between Hector's dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori), boats and people at Akaroa Harbour, New Zealand Research Completed

Title

Observations of interactions between Hector's dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori), boats and people at Akaroa Harbour, New Zealand

Lead Author

Nichols, C., Stone, G., Hutt, A., Brown, J., & Yoshinaga, A.

Organisation(s)

Department of Conservation

Publication Year

2001

Publisher

Department of Conservation

Contacts

science.publications@doc.govt.nz

www.doc.govt.nz

Abstract

Theodolite tracking observations of Hector.s dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori) and boat activity were conducted from cliff-side 30 m above sea level within a defined study site in Akaroa Harbour, South Island, New Zealand from 5 January 1999 to 12 February 1999 and from 6 January 2000 to 14 February 2000. Data were compiled and analysed to assess whether there were changes in dolphin distribution, or behaviour, due to boat activity.

A total of 232 hours and 48 minutes of observations were made that covered 1369 boats and 2620 dolphin groups. Recreational boats were the most common boat type observed, comprising 64.1% in 1999 and 58.5% in 2000 of the total boat activity observed; however, recreational boats comprised only 1% and 2% respectively of total boat observations that were associated with dolphins. Dolphins were most commonly associated with kayak groups during both observation periods. The dolphin behaviour (swimming) was significantly correlated with increasing boat density. Overall, dolphin density in the study area was independent of boat density and dolphin group size did not change with boat presence.

Fourteen multi-boat events were observed where two or more boats in close proximity to each other were associated with the same group of dolphins. Included are observations of dolphin/boat/people interactions in Akaroa Harbour, a note on two calf mortalities in 1999 (possibly caused by boat strikes) a note on four beach-cast dolphins in 2000, and management and research recommendations.

Keywords:

Cephalorhynchus hectori, Hector’s dolphin, dolphin behaviour, boats, people, interactions, ecotourism, wildlife

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