Marine Mammals Regulations (NZ)

New Zealand Marine Mammals are protected by two main aspect of New Zealand legistlation.

The Marine Mammal Act (1978) and the Marine Mammal Regulations (1992).

The Department of Conservation is the governing body for all marine mammals, regardless of if they are free-swimming, in captivity, stranded or dead. Please abide by these rules and be aware of the following:

The rules apply to everyone, unless you have a specific research or filming permit.

If you are in a vessel (which includes, but is not limited to kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, sailing boats and jetskis) see the details below. Drones must abide by the rules for aircraft and must not approach closer than 150 m.

It is illegal to enter the water with the intention to swim or dive or snorkel with orca.

Vessels must observe the following: Never approach closer than 50 m, always approach from behind and never go in between individuals in a group. You must not drive faster than 5 knots when approaching and leaving the orca (for up to 200 m).