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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.
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.
Akaroa Marine Reserve was established in 2014 and is New Zealand’s newest marine reserve. After 20 years of fighting for the cause, this was achieved by the wonderful Akaroa Marine Protection Society, which included the founders of Akaroa Dolphins, Hugh & Pip Waghorn, whom realised the need for greater protection of the marine environment and to ensure the future health of Akaroa harbour.
We have been working with the New Zealand Whale & Dolphin Trust since we began in 2004. We have a strong relationship and often have staff actively joining our vessels, collecting data for PhD projects on the Hector’s dolphins. From this research, we are able to educate and inform our guests on the interesting scientific findings, which we share on a daily basis! In 2017, we raised $2,700 which went directly to the trust and their research.
After many months of looking for the “perfect” boat, we found there was nothing suitable on the market that met our needs. Therefore, we began the journey of building Akaroa’s first purpose-built dolphin watching vessel.
We understand the obligation we have to this unique and special environment. We chose to be a SMART operator because we are passionate about being leaders in sustainable marine mammal viewing.
