Dolphins in New-Zealand There are 9 different species of dolphins found around New-Zealand. The smallest and rarest dolphin is the Hector/Maui dolphin. Here is a description of this very precious dolphin, followed by a description of the other species found in NZ waters.
Does New Zealand have whales?
Almost half the world’s whale and dolphin species are found in New Zealand. These whales are generally larger than toothed whales and include the largest whale of all, the blue whale. New Zealand examples include humpback and Southern right whales.
Where can you see whales and dolphins in New Zealand?
The Best Places To Go Whale Watching In New Zealand
- Kaikōura. Canterbury.
- Malborough Sounds. North of the South Island.
- Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Depart From The Viaduct.
- Moutohora Island. Bay of Plenty.
- Akaroa. South Island.
What whales are around New Zealand?
The Gray’s, Arnoux, Cavier’s and the Southern strap-toothed whale is the most common seen in New Zealand waters. Beaked whales live in the open ocean and dive around 300m for squid. They vary in length from 3m to 13m, they have a small head, beak and bulging forehead.
Are there beluga whales in NZ?
They include fin, bowhead, humpback, northern right, southern right, gray, sei, two species of minke, and two or possibly three species of Bryde’s. Toothed whales: 69 to 73 species including sperm, orca, pilot, beluga, narwhal, around 20 species of beaked whales, and 46 species of dolphins and porpoises.
Are there blue whales in New Zealand?
A blue whale population lives in New Zealand waters for part of the year. They don’t just pass through on annual migrations, but it’s unknown for how much of the year they are present.
Are there orcas in New Zealand?
Orca are the most widely distributed mammal on earth with the exception of humans. Its distribution is patchy however and it is more commonly seen at the poles and in cooler waters. Orca can be found all throughout New Zealand’s coastline.
Where are New Zealand orcas?
Orca can be found around the coast of New Zealand (including estuaries and harbours) being seen off the Kaikōura Coastline generally between the months of November – March usually at least 2-3 times a month. These majestic creatures can be found travelling in tight knit pods of between 6 – 20 individuals.
Are there beluga whales in New Zealand?
Are whales and dolphins found in New Zealand?
Almost half the world’s whale and dolphin species are found in New Zealand. Whales and dolphins belong to a group of animals called cetaceans. They can be divided into two families: Toothed whales have teeth, though these may not always be obvious.
What is a pilot whale called in New Zealand?
Common dolphins found in New Zealand waters belong to the species now known as the short-beaked common dolphin. Despite their name, pilot whales are in fact one of the largest members of the dolphin family.
What are whales and dolphins?
Whales are the world’s largest mammals. Almost half the world’s whale and dolphin species are found in New Zealand. Whales and dolphins belong to a group of animals called cetaceans. They can be divided into two families:
What is the smallest type of dolphin in New Zealand?
Māui dolphin Māui dolphin is a subspecies of Hector’s dolphin, the world’s smallest dolphin. Only found in New Zealand’s waters, this distinctive grey dolphin with black and white markings and a round dorsal fin is the most easily recognised species of dolphin in New Zealand.
