Animal Profile IUCN: CR

Māui Dolphin

Cephalorhynchus hectori maui

Māui dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori maui) is a tiny coastal subspecies of Hector’s dolphin,restricted to the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It inhabits shallow, turbid nearshore waters and islisted as Critically Endangered (CR).BasicsScientific name: Cephalorhynchus hectori mauiS

Cetacea 2025-10-16 12:30:48 639 views

Scientific Name Cephalorhynchus hectori maui

Length 1.2–1.5 m

Weight 40–60 kg

Lifespan c. 18–25 years (estimated)

IUCN Status CR

Table of Contents

Māui dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori maui) is a tiny coastal subspecies of Hector’s dolphin, restricted to the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It inhabits shallow, turbid nearshore waters and is listed as Critically Endangered (CR).

Basics

Scientific name: Cephalorhynchus hectori maui
Size: 1.2–1.5 m; 40–60 kg
ID: rounded dorsal fin, short beak, bold black‑grey‑white coloration.

Ecology

Feeds on small fishes, squid and crustaceans; travels in small groups and often forages in surf zones. Slow reproduction (calving every few years).

Threats & Conservation

Bycatch in nearshore gillnets and trawls.
Disease & pollution (e.g., Toxoplasma), underwater noise and coastal development.
Management: spatial bans/restrictions on risky gear, enhanced monitoring, wastewater controls and public awareness.