Maui’s dolphins are the world’s smallest dolphin species, and are endemic to the north-west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is a subspecies of Hector’s dolphin. Females produce one calf every 2-4 years, making population increase very slow.

Maui’s dolphins are classified as ‘Nationally critical’ by the New Zealand Department of Conservation and as ‘Endangered’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Population estimates indicate that there are around 110 individuals in the world.

Maui’s dolphins are known to become entangled in set nets and trawl nets and drown. Fishing methods are currently restricted in areas known to have large populations of Maui’s dolphins.

Maui’s dolphins feed on a variety of fish species.

Hector’s and Maui's dolphins are known to Maori by other names, including Tutumairekurai, Aihe, Papakanua, Upokohue, Tukuperu, Tupoupou and Hopuhopu. They are revered as a taonga by Maori, who advocate strongly for their protection.

International Union for Conservation of nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red list

New Zealand Threat Classification System list