Swimming with an Endemic and Endangered Species: Effects of Tourism on Hector's Dolphins In Akaroa Harbour, New Zealand

The South Island Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori hectori) is both endemic and endangered. It is also subjected to commercial ecotourism operations in Akaroa Harbour, Banks Peninsula. The Hector's dolphin is an attractive species for swim-with-dolphin tourism. It is strictly coastal, resident in well-defined areas, has a low migratory range, and is generally attracted to vessels. In Akaroa Harbour, commercial swim-with-dolphin trips began in 1990 and it is the only place where this type of activity is permitted with this species. This study assessed the effects of such activities on Hector's dolphins, in particular vessel approach and swimmer placement. Effects identified here are similar to those previously reported in other coastal species. Furthermore, although Hector's dolphins showed increased tolerance to swimmers over time, they appear to display a temporal shift in their receptivity to swimmers during the austral summer months. To ensure the sustainability of the local tourism industry, it is recommended that the moratorium on the number of swim permits remains in place. In addition, a reduction in the level of exposure of this population of Hector's dolphins to tourism activities should be considered