NZ Marine Mammal Species Definition
What is classified as a whale under New Zealand regulations?
Whale Watch Kaikōura holds a valid Marine Mammal Permit that allows us to carry on a commercial operation to view marine mammals.
All Whale Watch Kaikōura interactions with marine mammals are governed by the Marine Mammal Protection Regulations of 1992 administered by the New Zealand Department of Conservation.
These regulations ensure that the marine mammals of New Zealand are protected and that their conservation is a top priority.
Under the New Zealand Marine Mammals Protection Regulations 1992 which governs all our interactions with marine mammals.
Whale means -
All species commonly known as whales; and includes baleen whales, sperm whales, beaked whales, killer whales, and pilot whales.
Dolphin means -
All species commonly known as dolphins; and includes dusky dolphins, common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and Hector’s dolphins; but does not include the species known as killer whales and pilot whales.
During the months of Nov - Mar there is a rest period in place for viewing of the Dusky Dolphins between the hours of 11.30am to 1.30pm. This is mandatory for all vessels and has been put in place by the Department of Conservation, this restricts viewing of Dusky Dolphins on our tours during these times.