Distribution and abundance of Maui dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori maui) along the North Island west coast, New Zealand. DOC Science Internal Series 93. 18p. 

Ferreira, S M., and C C Roberts 

2003 

Department of Conservation 

 

Report 

A subspecies of Hector&#8217;s dolphin, Cephalorhynchus hectori maui (Maui&#8217;s<br /> dolphin), occurs along the west coast of North Island, New Zealand. Previous<br /> studies and records indicated a small population size (134 individuals), a recent<br /> decline in the population (based on genetic data), and a change in the<br /> distribution of this subspecies. We conducted aerial surveys for Maui&#8217;s dolphin<br /> between Paraparaumu and North Cape during the summers of 2000/01 and<br /> 2001/02, primarily to determine its current distribution. Dolphins were<br /> recorded between Kaipara Harbour and Kawhia Harbour, with most sightings<br /> between the Manukau Harbour and Port Waikato. A population estimate<br /> potentially constrained by availability and perception bias suggests that the<br /> population could be as small as 75 individuals (CI = 48&ndash;130). We conclude that<br /> strong conservation actions, including the immediate reduction of fisheriesrelated<br /> mortality to zero, might allow this population to recover.<br />  

 

Marine mammals, maui dolphin, aerial survey, west coast North Island, distribution, abundance, data analysis 

FerreiraRoberts2003Distribution Abundance maui dolphin.pdf