Sperm Whale Protection Project
Agency funded: New Zealand Whale & Dolphin Trust
Moana Mark is helping protect Aotearoa's iconic sperm whales by funding long-term research that monitors their population and tracks changes over time.
Did you know?
The seafloor off Kaikōura drops off steeply to over 1,000 metres just a few kilometres from shore. That means deep-diving giants like sperm whales can be spotted incredibly close to land, sometimes just 800 metres away.
Why study sperm whales?
Sperm whales (parāoa) are not only a taonga species with deep cultural and ecological value, they're also a major drawcard for the Kaikōura region. But in recent years, fewer whales have been sighted. Researchers are concerned that changing ocean conditions could be affecting their numbers.
Every summer and winter, scientists from the University of Otago's Marine Megafauna Research Group run three-to-six week survey trips off the Kaikōura coast. Using small boats, they identify whales by the unique shape of their tail flukes as they dive.
The team also gathers behavioural data, uses hydrophones to record underwater sounds, collects sloughed skin for analysis, and flies drones to capture aerial images.
How are they studied?
What does this research tell us?
This decades-long project has built a detailed picture of sperm whale life in Kaikōura. The photo-ID catalogue includes over 200 individual whales, some known to researchers for more than 30 years. The data tells scientists how many whales are visiting, how their behaviour is changing, and whether their population is shrinking.
How does this help protect them?
With fewer whales being seen, this research is vital for understanding why. It helps scientists and decision-makers respond early, and ensures conservation and tourism practices are managed responsibly. Your donation directly supports this important fieldwork.
Protect these deep-diving giants by funding science that makes a difference.
Project Spotlight
