A 10-year moratorium on new marine mammal tourism permits will be introduced around Banks Peninsula to help protect the threatened Hector’s dolphin population.

The Department of Conservation announced the moratorium ahead of the current restrictions expiring on September 16.

Existing permits held by six operators in Akaroa and Lyttelton will not be affected.

The protected area will also be significantly expanded. The existing moratorium covers Akaroa Harbour, while the new boundary will include waters around Banks Peninsula, from the Avon-Heathcote Estuary Ihutai mouth to Birdlings Flat.

Banks Peninsula is considered a nationally important stronghold for Hector’s dolphins.

The species is classified as Threatened-Nationally Vulnerable, meaning it faces a high risk of extinction. About 15,000 Hector’s dolphins are believed to remain.

DOC Operations Manager Andy Thompson said Akaroa Harbour had a particularly high density of dolphins and was thought to be one of the few places in the world where encounters with dolphins in a sheltered harbour were almost guaranteed.

“People out naturing love being able to see these unique little dolphins. They are an integral part of the harbour’s ecosystem,” Thompson said.

“The effects of tourism on Hector’s dolphins have been extensively studied, with strong evidence of behavioural and habitat change from interactions with vessels.

“We want to ensure this species stays and is protected as much as possible, while allowing sustainable tourism.”

Thompson said many marine mammal tourism operators were working alongside DOC to protect the dolphins.

“This moratorium allows us to shift focus to monitoring, research and compliance, to ensure the dolphins are protected for generations to come.”

He said extending the boundary would provide quieter areas where dolphins could feed, socialise and thrive away from concentrated tourism and recreational activity.

“We believe implementing the moratorium and extending the boundary are the best ways to protect this species,” Thompson said.

“We also recognise the significant economic benefits the existing tourism operators bring in. We have spoken to them throughout this process, and we have broad support.

“We all want the Hector’s dolphins to thrive here.”