DoC says it will prosecute dolphin attackers

Doc said it was 'unacceptable' for anyone to attack Moko. Photo / Gisborne Herald

The Department of Conservation (DOC) says it will prosecute a group of youths seen attacking Moko the friendly dolphin if it catches them.

A woman has reported seeing high school boys punching and hitting Moko at Gisborne's Waikanae Beach last week.

The group harassed Moko then abused people who told them to leave the dolphin alone, Sue Clifton told The Gisborne Herald.

"The thing is if he had decided to retaliate, Moko would be blamed but it would be their own fault.

"The majority of us realise how lucky we are to have such a special animal interact with us the way he does, and then he has the misfortune to meet thugs like those boys."

The incident was seen by many people, she said.

DOC ranger Jamie Quirk said the behaviour would definitely be followed up by the department if there was evidence.

He said it was "unacceptable" for anyone to attack Moko.

"Certainly if we can get evidence we would be looking into prosecuting people, but without evidence our hands are tied," Mr Quirk told Radio NZ.

The Marine Animals Protection Act carries a penalty fine of up to $30,000 for offences against the Act.

- NZPA