Boating New Zealand Boat Reviews
Reviews
Boating New Zealand News
News
Boating New Zealand Sports
Sport
Boating New Zealand Lifestyle
Lifestyle
BOAT-REVIEWS-MOBILE
Boat Reviews
BOAT-NEWS-MOBILE
News
BOAT-SPORTS-MOBILE
Sports
BOAT-LIFESTYLE-MOBILE
Lifestyle
HomeNewsOrca incidents prompt DOC plea

Orca incidents prompt DOC plea

Published

Boaties urged to follow marine mammal protection rules after orca encounters

Bookmark post
Bookmarked
Bookmark post
Bookmarked

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is urging boaties, kayakers, and jet-skiers to respect marine mammal protection laws following multiple orca sightings in Waikato’s Raglan and Kawhia Harbours. Reports of vessels getting too close to the animals – and in some cases actively pursuing them – have raised concerns about both human safety and the well-being of these highly threatened marine predators.

Close encounters with orca

Over the past two weeks, a family pod of five orca has been sighted in the two harbours. These magnificent animals, which form part of New Zealand’s resident population, are believed to be feeding in the area. While their presence has sparked excitement among locals and visitors, DOC Marine Species Manager Malene Felsing warns that inappropriate human interactions can have serious consequences.

DOC has received reports, including social media complaints, about boats and other watercraft getting too close to the orca. In one incident, a vessel was allegedly chasing the pod in Raglan Harbour.

“The orca pod is bringing people a lot of joy, which is great,” says Felsing.

“However, this family group includes a large male and an adult female – these are powerful animals who could do serious harm if agitated.”

The pod also includes calves, which are particularly vulnerable to injury or disturbance, including potential separation from their mothers. Felsing stresses that while orca may approach vessels on their own terms, boaties should never initiate contact.

- Advertisement -

The risks of human disturbance

Orca are apex predators, but their numbers in New Zealand waters remain critically low, with an estimated population of only 150 to 200 individuals. They are classified as Nationally Critical under the New Zealand Threat Classification System. One of the biggest threats they face is human disturbance, which can disrupt their feeding, resting, and social behaviours.

New Zealand’s marine mammal protection rules are clear:

  • Vessels must stay at least 50 metres from orca at all times.
  • A maximum of three vessels are allowed within 300 metres of orca at any given time.
  • Kayaks and paddleboards count as individual vessels unless they are rafted together.

If orca approach a vessel, the best course of action is to turn off engines, remain still, and simply enjoy the encounter until the animals move on. Chasing, circling, or cutting off their path is strictly prohibited and could result in legal action.

Legal consequences for rule breakers

Under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978, it is illegal to harass, disturb, injure, or kill marine mammals. Those found guilty of violating these laws face serious penalties, including:

  • A maximum fine of $250,000 or up to two years’ imprisonment for offences involving harm to marine mammals.
  • Potential infringement fines for getting too close or failing to comply with distance rules.

In May 2024, a man was fined $600 after video footage emerged of him attempting to leap onto an orca in Auckland waters. DOC is urging people to learn from such incidents and act responsibly.

Orca pod. Photo credit: DOC

Reporting orca harassment

Anyone witnessing harassment or disturbance of orca or other marine mammals should report the incident immediately to DOC by calling 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468). Providing details such as the location, time, and any identifying features of vessels or individuals involved will help authorities take appropriate action.

“We want marine mammals like orca to be able to go about their natural behaviours such as feeding, socialising, and resting,” says Felsing.

“Improper interactions can severely disrupt this kind of behaviour.”

Enjoying orca responsibly

Orca sightings are a privilege, offering a rare chance to observe one of the ocean’s most intelligent and powerful creatures in their natural habitat. However, these encounters come with a responsibility to respect the animals and follow the laws designed to protect them.

For those lucky enough to witness orca while out on the water, the key takeaways are simple:

  • Observe from a safe distance – at least 50 metres away.
  • If orca approach you, stay still and let them decide the interaction.
  • Never chase or attempt to touch the animals.
  • Report any illegal behaviour to DOC.

By respecting these guidelines, boaties can help ensure that New Zealand’s orca population continues to thrive, while also keeping themselves safe.

SHARE:

Related Articles

Comments

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand. Subscribe to view comments and join the conversation. Choose your plan →

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Chris Woodhams
Chris Woodhams
Adventurer. Explorer. Sailor.

More from Boating New Zealand

The final frontier: Vendée Glo...

As the leading skippers cross the finish line, the real test of endurance c...
Race Day ReportsVendee Globe - Round The World Yacht Race

Timber, tradition, and time-ho...

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival is one of the largest maritime celebrat...
Boating Festivals & Events

Reel real adventures exploring...

A story of passion, innovation, and adventure on New Zealand’s untamed coas...
News

Operation Resolution: Salvage ...

After 17 days of intensive work, salvors have reached a critical milestone ...
Incidents at Sea

The End of an Era: Royal Carib...

A beloved icon of the cruising world, Song of America has met its final cha...
Boating history

Missing jetskier in Cook Strai...

A jetski without its driver was discovered at Cook Rock, off the top of New...
Coastguard News
-- ADVERTISEMENT --

Follow Us

Weekly Newsletter

Stay up to date with the latest developments shaping New Zealand's Boating world.

Social Media

Follow us on social media to stay in the loop with the latest trends and news shaping New Zealand's boating scene!

-- THINGS WE LOVE --

GET
STARLINK
HERE

-- DIRECTORY LISTING --

NZ Events Worth Adding to Your Calendar

Have an event you'd like to list on Boating New Zealand. Contact us with the details.

Catch all the action of the Vendée Globe Race, starting 10 Nov, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. Follow along with excitement at Boating New Zealand.

FISHING

White Pointer Boats 30th Anniversary Fishing Comp, 5 - 8 Feb 2025 in Waihau Bay

Makaira Trailer Boat Competition, 25 & 26 Jan 2025 in Whangaroa

Stabicraft Fish N Chicks Tournament, 6 - 8 Feb 2025 in Tauranga. Dress up theme is “Ladies of their Time”. Raising funds to help find a cure for Breast Cancer.

Surtees Annual Fishing Competition, 28 Feb - 1 Mar 2025 in Whakatane

Hook Me Up Fishing Competition - Matakana vs Hillside, 7 Mar 2025 in Whakatane

The Kubota Billfish Classic, 12 - 15 Mar 2025 in Mercury Bay, Whitianga

ITM Fishing Competition, 13 - 16 Mar 2025 in Whangaroa

NZ Lure Masters (Catch, Measure and Release competition), 3 & 4 Oct 2025, New Zealand wide

Stabicraft Te Anau Manapouri Fishing Classic, 25 - 27 Oct 2025 TBC in Te Anau Manapouri

REGATTAS

Rolex Sydney to Hobart, 26 Dec 2024 starts in Sydney, Australia

New Zealand Sail Grand Prix, 18 & 19 Jan 2025 in Auckland

Bay of Islands Sailing Week, 21 - 24 Jan 2025 at Bay of Islands

NZ Millenium Cup, 1 - 4 Feb 2025 at Waitemata Harbour

Toyota Youth International Match Racing Cup, 26 Feb - 4 Mar 2025 in Auckland

PIC Harbour Classic, 28 Feb - 1 Mar 2025 in Auckland

Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race 2025, starting 11 Oct 2025 TBC from Sydney Harbour

PIC Insurance Brokers Coastal Classic, 24 Oct 2025 TBC from Auckland to Russell

NZ Match Racing Championships, 2025 dates tbc in Auckland

HYDRO THUNDER

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Mangakino, 18 & 19 Jan 2025 at Mangakino

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Karapiro, 7 - 9 Feb 2025 at Karapiro

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Lake Rotoiti, 8 - 9 Mar 2025 at Nelson Lakes

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Lake Twizel, 29 - 30 Mar 2025 at Twizel

JET BOAT RACING

2024/25 NZ Jetsprint Championship R2, 1 Dec 2024 at Featherston

2024/25 NZ Jetsprint Championship R3, 27 Dec 2024 at Wanganui

UIM World Jetsprint Championships, 25 Jan -2 Feb 2025 at Wanaka (25 & 26 Jan) and Wanganui (1 & 2 Feb)

2024/25 NZ Jetsprint Championship R4, 23 Feb 2025 at Wanganui

2025 NZ Marathon Coast-to-Coast, 16 to 25 Mar 2025 starting at Greymouth ad finishing at Christchurch

2024 Golden Homes NZ Jet Boat Marathon, 2025 dates TBC on Southland Rivers (Oreti, Waiau and Mataura)

National Jet Boat Rally 2024, 2025 date TBC at Oliver Road, Bendigo (near Cromwell)

WATERSPORTS

Yamaha Rollo's Marine Bridge 2 Bridge, 2025 dates tbc Staged on the Waikato River between Cambridge & Taupiri, based in Hamilton, New Zealand

NON-MOTORISED SPORT

Waka Ama - 2025 National Sprint Championships, 12 - 18 Jan 2025 at Lake Karapiro, Cambridge

Waka Ama - 2025 Secondary School Nationals, 24 - 28 Mar 2025 at Lake Tikitapu, Rotorua

ANTIQUE, CLASSIC & RETRO BOATS

25th NZ Antique & Classic Boat Show , 1 & 2 Mar 2025 at Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes

SHOWS

Moana Auckland - New Zealand's Ocean Festival, 27 Jan to 9 Mar 2025 in Auckland

Auckland Boat Show, 6 - 9 Mar 2025 to be held at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, Auckland

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, 15-18 May 2025 to be held at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, Auckland

NZ Boat, Fish and Dive Show, 30 & 31 Aug 2025 to be held at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Waipa

-- DIRECTORY LISTING --

International Boat Shows

COMING EVENTS

Boot Düsseldorf 18 - 26 Jan 2025 to be held in Düsseldorf, Germany

New York Boat Show, 22 - 26 Jan 2025 to be held at the Javits Center, New York

Bahamas Charter Yacht Show, 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2025 to be held at Nassau, Bahamas

Houston Boat Show, 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2025 to be held at the NRG Center, Houston, Texas

Dubai International Boat Show, 19 - 23 Feb 2025 to be held at the Dubai Harbour

Miami International Boat Show, 12 - 16 Feb 2025 to be held in Miami

Palm Beach International Boat Show, 19 - 23 Mar 2025 to be held along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach

International Multihull Show, 23 - 27 Apr 2025 to be held in Terre-plein Ouest du port La Grande-Motte (34), France

Palma International Boat Show, 30 Apr - 3 May 2025 to be held at the Superyacht Village, Palma, Spain

Barcaly's Jersey Boat Show, 3 - 5 May 2025 to be held in the Channel Islands

South Coast & Green Tech Boat Show, 9 - 11 May 2025 to be held in Ocean Village Marina, Southampton, Hampshire

The British Motor Yacht Show, 15 - 18 May 2025 to be held at the Swanwick Marina, Southampton, Hampshire

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, 15 - 18 May 2025 at Auckland Showgrounds, Auckland

Sanctuary Cove International Boat show, 22 - 25 May 2025 to be held in Sanctuary Cove, Queensland

Sydney International Boat show, 31 July - 3 Aug 2025 to be held at ICC Sydney & Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour

Hiswa Te Water, 3 - 7 Nov 2025 to be held in Bataviahaven Lelystad, The Netherlands

Southampton International Boat Show, 19 - 28 Sep 2025 to be held in Southampton, UK

International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), 7 - 9 Oct 2025 to be held in Tampa, Florida

Annapolis Sail Boat Show, 9 - 13 Oct 2025 to be held at City Dock, Annapolis, Maryland

Newport International Boat Show, 20 - 23 Nov 2025 to be held in Newport, Rhode Island

Cannes Yachting Festival, 9 - 14 Sep 2025 at Cannes – Vieux Port & Port Canto

Genoa Boat Show, 18 - 23 Sep 2025 to be held in Genoa, Italy

Melbourne International Boat Show, Oct 2025, TBC to be held at New Quay Promenade Harbour Esplanade Seven Marinas

Biograd Boat Show, Oct 2025, TBC to be held in the City of Biograd, Croatia

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 29 Oct – 2 Nov 2025 to be held at several locations in Fort Lauderdale

METSTRADE 18 - 20 Nov 2025 to be held at the Rai, Amsterdam

Antigua Charter Yacht Show 4 - 9 Dec 2025 to be held at the Nelson's Dockyard UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua

Monaco Yacht Show, 24 - 27 Sep 2025 on Monacco