Catlins Coast Marine Mammal Sanctuary
Introduction
The Catlins Coast Marine Mammal Sanctuary in Southland is approximately 65,967 hectares and covers 161 km of coastline.For tide, boundaries and other information you can download the MarineMate app.
Location of the sanctuary
The boundaries extend from Three Brother’s Point offshore 5 nm to a point 6.9 nm offshore to Bushy Point Beacon. The sanctuary is approximately 65,967 hectares and covers 161 km of coastline.
Purpose of the sanctuary
The Catlins coast has been identified as a hotspot for Hector’s dolphins on the south-east coast of the South Island.
The Catlins Coast Marine Mammal Sanctuary is used to manage seabed mining and seismic surveying activities which may threaten Hector’s dolphins and other marine mammals.
Restrictions in the sanctuary
The NZ Gazette notice (see below) for a marine mammal sanctuary specifies the restrictions on activities within its boundaries.
The Sanctuary has the following restrictions:
- a ban on seabed mining with an exemption for existing exploration and mining permits; and
- a ban on seismic surveying with exemptions for:
- existing permits
- urgent hazard assessments
- decommissioning of infrastructure
- “Level 3” category seismic surveys as per the seismic surveying code of conduct, and
- nationally significant activities that have received approval from the Minister of Conservation and Minister of Energy and Resources.
Other activities which pose a threat to Hector’s dolphins in the Sanctuary area are managed using other legislation (e.g. certain forms of fishing are restricted around the South Island using the Fisheries Act 1996) or existing regulations (e.g. marine mammal tourism and interactions are managed under the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations 1992).
Fishing regulations on the Ministry of Fisheries website.
All marine mammals are fully protected in New Zealand waters under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978, which DOC administers.
Hector’s dolphin
Hector’s dolphins/upokohue are easily recognised by their rounded dorsal fin and black, grey and white markings. With a maximum length of 145 cm (60 - 70cm at birth), they are the smallest marine dolphin in the world.
Hector’s dolphins are naturally inquisitive and friendly to people. Small groups will bow-ride and play in the wake of boats. Summer is the best time to see dolphins as they move close inshore to breed and raise their young. If you are in a boat when dolphins are nearby, make sure you slow down, especially if young dolphins are present as they are not good swimmers and there is risk of boat strike.
If you see marine mammals stranded or in distress, contact 0800 DOCHOT (0800 362 468).
Map
Catlins Coast marine mammal sanctuary boundaries (JPG, 251K)