Jetski users told to stay away from dolphins

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The Department of Conservation is calling on jetski users to stop harassing Hector's dolphins around the Banks Peninsula.

DOC's Akaroa Field Ranger, Derek Cox, patrols the waters around the peninsula and is worried about the safety of the rare and vulnerable dolphins.

Hector's dolphins/upokohue come close to the shore to breed during the summer months, however this is also when numbers of boats and jet skis increase, especially over the holiday season in Akaroa and Lyttelton harbours, Mr Cox said.

"Jet skiers have caused particular concern in recent years," he said. "Please be aware of the dolphins when out on the water. They can be very friendly and inquisitive. Obey the marine mammal regulations and slow right down or stop when near them."

Newborn dolphins are particularly vulnerable to injury as they swim close to the surface and relatively slowly. Mr Cox said some have been killed by boat propellers, when unwary boaties have run them over.

"Let the dolphins come to you and if they decide to move away, let them go," she said.

"Making sudden changes in speed or direction should be avoided especially around mothers and calves who are unable to react as fast as adult dolphins."

The following rules apply when sharing the water with any marine mammal:

# Ensure that you travel no faster than idle or 'no wake' speed within 300 metres of any marine mammal.

# Approach whales and dolphins from behind and to the side.

# Do not circle them, obstruct their path or cut through any group.

# There should be no more than three vessels and/or aircraft within 300 metres of any marine mammal.

# Idle slowly away. Speed may be gradually increased to out-distance dolphins and should not exceed 10 knots within 300 metres of any dolphin.

If you see marine mammals being harassed call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).