© Kirsty Russell

Why it is needed
Numbering around 100 dolphins, the Maui's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori maui) is the world's smallest and rarest marine dolphin and is found only in New Zealand waters. Maui's dolphin is classified as critically endangered and it is feared that it may become extinct within 25 years. The dolphin is found only on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand between Dargaville and New Plymouth. Little is known about the dolphin and the scarcity of information available makes protecting it even harder.

WWF together with researchers has developed the WWF Sightings Network in order to learn more about the distribution and behaviour of Maui's dolphins. Information of particular importance includes; how far offshore they move, to what extend they use the west coast harbours and how far north and south they move. Data generated by public reported sightings is a very important tool to help answer those questions.

Who can report?
Anyone can report a sighting, whether you are member of the local community, student at a local school, a keen fisher or a holiday maker.

Reporting a sighting
Are you sure it is a Maui's dolphin? Check here how to identify a Maui's dolphin to find out about distinguishing features and what to look for.

To report a Maui's dolphin sighting you can free call on 0800 4 MAUIS. This free line is serviced 24 hours a day. Also, you can submit a sighting report with us directly online.

Specific information will help researchers, so take a photo if you can. Observe the dolphin carefully and make some written notes about:

• where you saw it (for example, describe landmarks)
• what time it was
• what it looked like
• whether there were other dolphins with it and how many
• what it was doing

If you see a dead or stranded Maui's dolphin, please report it right away to the Department of Conservation - call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

To report illegal set nets, call the Ministry of Fisheries on 0800 4 POACHER (0800 4 76224).

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