Our Blog

The Hector’s dolphins are one of the smallest and rarest dolphin species in the world, endemic only to New Zealand, and nationally endangered. Out of roughly 10,000, there’s about 1100 of them living around Banks Peninsula and Akaroa Harbour.

The New Zealand fur seal, also named “kekeno” is the most common seal in New Zealand. In the 18th century, these seals were hunted by European sealers for their fur and blubber, which almost drove them to extinct. Since 1894 the NZ fur seals have been fully protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Today there are more than 200,000 fur seals and they thrive around the rocky shores of New Zealand.

When recreational fishing in and around Akaroa harbour it is important to read up on our fish size regulations and where our two marine reserve boundaries are. Planning for a fishing trip is important as well, with our changeable weather, sea conditions and tides, we suggest speaking to a local to find out where’s best in different conditions.

Manuka is a flowering tree native to New Zealand, a scrub like bush that plays a great part in our ecosystem. Manuka Honey contains special antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. We stock Moutain Gold Manuka Honey & Wild Ferns Manuka Honey Skincare products.

During the September 2010 Christchurch Earthquake, our hospital in Akaroa was damaged and had to be demolished. Akaroa Dolphins decided to donate a sum of $30,000 which went directly towards the rebuild. Thank you to all our customers for making this possible and indirectly helping us achieve this valuable contribution towards our community.

We are a permitted operator meaning we are allowed to take guests out to view the Hector's dolphins and other marine mammals. Akaroa Dolphins also pays an annual fee to support the Department of Conservation (DOC) in New Zealand, meaning a percentage of each one of our passenger’s fare goes towards scientific research and welfare of our Hector's dolphins.