Give dolphins space

Dolphins take to the air as they swim past the keeler Georgia during Bay of Islands Sailing Week earlier this year. Photo / Will Calver Ocean Photography

Dolphins are plentiful in the Bay of Islands this summer, but the excitement of encountering the marine mammals on the water has come with a warning from the Department of Conservation - give them more space to avoid killing or maiming them.

While it's tempting to get close to snap the perfect photo, DOC wants boaties to help keep the Bay of Islands' bottlenose dolphins safe this summer by not getting too close.

The annual influx of boats during the busy summer period coincides with peak calving season, when dolphins are most vulnerable, DOC marine mammals ranger Elke Reufels said. Ms Reufels said in the Bay over summer months it's common for boats to drive over and through dolphin pods at speed, either accidentally or because they don't think it is a problem and the dolphins will just get out of the way.

"There have been cases of dolphins being hit by boat propellers and some are known to have died as a result of their injuries."

Scientific studies show a decline in the Bay of Islands' bottlenose dolphin population and nearly half of the bay's bottlenose dolphin calves do not survive their first year of life. DOC can't determine what's causing the decline "but what we do know is the bay is a busy place in summer. If mothers and calves are disturbed all day they can't get on with the things that dolphins need to do to take care of themselves. For example, dolphin calves may not suckle enough in order to grow and thrive."

In order to keep the dolphins safe and minimise disturbance, especially while they are looking after their newborn calves, DOC wants anyone skippering a boat in the Bay this summer to scan ahead for dolphin dorsal fins.

"Do not drive through the pod or over the animals. Slow down gradually in plenty of time and if you are simply travelling through the area, give the dolphins a wide berth. If you would like to watch the dolphins, you must slow down gradually to below 5 knots within 300 metres of the dolphin pod. Never circle a pod or herd the dolphins. Approach from behind and to the side of the group," she said.

By law, there must not be more than three boats within 300 metres of a dolphin pod. All dolphins, whales and seals are protected by law. Harassment of marine mammals is against the law. If you see people harassing dolphins phone 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).