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The Hector’s dolphin is the world’s smallest dolphin, as well as being one of the rarest species of dolphin in the world. To pay tribute to this precious species, New Zealand Post is issuing a 0.9999 proof coin as part of the ‘smallest gold coins of the world’ series. Pre-order yours now for December.
Endemic to New Zealand, the Hector’s dolphin favours inshore waters. Two sub-species of the Hector’s dolphin exist - the South Island Hector’s dolphin (found around the coast of the South Island) and the Maui dolphin (found off the north-west coast of the North Island). There are estimated to be around 14,000 Hector’s dolphins remaining, with about 55 of those being adult Maui dolphins.
The Hector’s dolphin is easily recognisable and unique in more ways than one. It is the only dolphin in New Zealand with a rounded black dorsal fin. Its body is distinctively grey in colour with black and white markings and a short snout. An adult South Island Hector’s dolphin generally weighs between 40 and 60 kilograms, and measures less than 1.5 metres in length.
The major threat to Hector’s dolphins is set net fishing. Like all marine mammals they need to come to the surface regularly to breathe, and if they become tangled in nets, they will hold their breath until they suffocate. Because they occur close inshore they are also at risk of injury by boats. The Department of Conservation is working closely with community groups, the fishing industry and independent researchers on ways to protect this precious species.