Photographing the Rarest Dolphins in the World

Hector’s dolphins are the smallest and rarest marine dolphins in the world. They have distinct black facial markings, short stocky bodies and a dorsal fin shaped like a Mickey Mouse ear. They are found only in the shallow coastal waters along the shores of New Zealand.

In 2023 we did a 7-week camper van trip through the North and South Islands of New Zealand. One of the most memorable stops was Curio Bay in the Catlins, a scenic region in the very southeast of the South Island.

While camped at Curio Bay we would often go for long walks on the white sand beach next door in what is called Porpoise Bay. From November to mid-February the Hector Dolphin comes here to breed.

When arriving we asked at the campsite reception if the dolphins had been spotted in Porpoise Bay. They said, not yet, as it was early November, any day now.

The next day when walking along the vast white sand beach we spotted them playing in the waves. What an incredible sight that was seeing these rare animals. We were lucky enough to spot them again the next day.

Here are but two of the many photos we took over the 2 days watching the dolphins.