News

After four decades of careful study, scientists have revealed that Hector’s dolphins, one of New Zealand’s most iconic taonga species, reproduce more slowly than previously understood.

New data from the 2024–25 fishing year shows 67 marine mammals were killed by commercial fishing vessels inside New Zealand’s marine mammal sanctuaries - areas created under law specifically for their protection.

The 2025-26 breeding season for tara iti/New Zealand fairy tern has delivered genuine cause for optimism, with 11 chicks fledging successfully despite a challenging summer of predation pressure, wild weather, and anxious moments.

The recent Māui Dolphin Day 2026 at Whaingaroa Raglan, was an important opportunity to connect key groups and engage with hundreds of people to enable stronger dolphin protections and empower people to take action. 

As the seasons shift into Ngahuru (Autumn), it’s a good time to give a little attention to the drains and streams in your neighbourhood.

Strong public opinion shows we cannot wait to take stronger action for freshwater protections. With freshwater widely seen as poorly managed, and motivation high to restore whitebait populations, the survey signals a clear opportunity for better protections, increased investment, and visible restoration outcomes.