Systematic behavioural studies on common dolphins are extremely rare, not only in New Zealand but also in the rest of the world. Massey University scientist and New Zealand Geographic Trust research fund recipient, Karen Stockin, is conducting one of them. Her field work, which documents the behaviour of the popular marine mammal in the Hauraki Gulf, will soon feature in the international journal Marine Mammal Science, highlighting the importance of the Gulf as a feeding area for New Zealand common dolphins. Read more

Our 2000 kilometre-long island chain, set in the great Southern and Pacific Oceans, provides a vital breeding base for millions of seabirds. Eighty-four seabird species breed in the region, making New Zealand the most diverse seabird community in the world. Nearly half of those species breed nowhere else. Additionally, many other seabirds visit our waters throughout the year. Which is why New Zealand is recognised as a very special place on the world seabird map, an international hotspot for both birds and birdwatching. Read more