<\/p>\n
\nDOC says it appears that it was a dusky dolphin. File picture.
\nPhoto: Zac Penman\n<\/p>\n
A decapitated dolphin has been found on a beach north of Kaik\u014dura.<\/p>\n
A member of the public reported the discovery at Okiwi Bay to the Department of Conservation (DOC) on 24 August.<\/p>\n
DOC said it appeared to be a dusky dolphin that had washed up naturally before someone illegally removed its head.<\/p>\n
Kaik\u014dura Marine Reserves Ranger Zac Penman said the “grisly act” was a breach of the Marine Mammals Protection Act.<\/p>\n
“It’s not acceptable for people to interfere with protected wildlife and it’s illegal to remove a protected species’ head,” he said.<\/p>\n
“These species are taonga and to desecrate one like this would be a massively tapu act,” he said.<\/p>\n
Penman said people who breached the Marine Mammals Protection Act could face up to two years’ jail or a fine of up to $250,000.<\/p>\n
People intending to harvest species for cultural purposes needed to have a permit, he said.<\/p>\n
Penman said Kaik\u014dura was renowned for its marine life and wildlife-watching opportunities.<\/p>\n
“Countless dolphins, seals, whales and other marine animals count on us to do our part and follow the rules,” he said.<\/p>\n
“When people or organisations don’t follow the rules, it threatens our special places and native wildlife. DOC takes these responsibilities very seriously and has a range of enforcement tools to hold rule-breakers to account.”<\/p>\n