With the upcoming SailGP event in Ōtautahi/Christchurch looming, there is mounting apprehension regarding the safety of
Hector's dolphins, an endangered species unique to New Zealand waters. The event, scheduled to take place in an area
frequented by these dolphins, presents grave risks due to the increased boat traffic and high-speed F50 foils used in
the race.
New Zealand's Hector's dolphins, once abundant, are now classified as endangered, however the Marine Mammal Management
Plan (MMMP) designed to protect the Upokohue/Hector’s dolphins was only released 14 March, that’s just 9 days before the
race begins! This provides scant time for the pre-training briefings required by all involved or for feedback on the
plan.
Danette Wereta, from the Animal Justice Party (AJP), emphasised the absurdity of prioritising a race over the protection
of such a precious species, stating, "Honestly, it's ridiculous to think that these precious dolphins will be at risk
for entertainment."
Last year's SailGP event in Lyttelton Harbour/Whakaraupō highlighted the disregard for marine life, with instructions to
cease racing when dolphins were detected ignored. Despite clear concerns raised, little action seems to have been taken
to address the risks posed to these vulnerable animals. In fact, this years’ MMMP seems vague on the consequences should
something similar, or worse, occur during this period.
Wereta added. "While these events may be visually spectacular, they should not come at the expense of our precious
marine wildlife. The fact that SailGP and ChristchurchNZ will “immediately discuss in good faith the consequences of any
non-compliance with a view to SailGP taking steps to deal with such breach (if possible) as soon as practicable” does
not reassure us."
The absence of crucial measures, such as underwater acoustic detectors, in the current management plan is a concern.
"The 2024 plan lacks essential components that were deemed crucial in previous versions, particularly the absence of
underwater acoustic detectors," Wereta remarked. "These detectors are essential for understanding dolphin behavior and
mitigating potential harm."
AJP urges concerned individuals to express their dissatisfaction with the situation. "It's time to speak up and make it
known that endangering Hector's dolphins for the sake of a sporting event is not acceptable," Wereta stated. "We
encourage everyone to join us on social media to voice their concerns and demand action, check out our facebook and
instagram page for details."
The public deserves assurance that the safety and well-being of Hector's dolphins and the marine environment will not be
compromised for the sake of entertainment. We call on SailGP organisers, Christchurch NZ and sponsors to prioritise the
protection of these endangered dolphins taking into account the grave risks posed by increased boat traffic and
high-speed training, rehearsals and racing in areas frequented by marine life.