Cetacean Ecology Research Group - CERG

18/06/2026

Clean Green Oceania? Think again! Sadly, our latest collaboration with , UOW: University of Wollongong, Australia and partners show just how much of an issue is 'down under' and how our marine mammals (as well as kai and humans) are exposed as a result - , , , , - Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa, UTS: University of Technology Sydney, National Measurement Institute - read the full open access paper at MPB at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X26007368?via%3Dihub

18/06/2026

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/two-orca-found-dead-in-bycatch-incidents-in-new-zealand-first/T4SI7JJWMNAQHNCB4TVJ6VOHD4/?utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=nzh_fb&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwdGRjcASgU_VjbGNrBKBTs2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHo3-1Y0N-EChzzmdJbov0Q9CSB2MQP2R5OOeI1BXv8b7mIVKRdAQ0KK1AQtp_aem_DhG0LMMG8Z1iRwzfj90ewA =1781744406

Fishing is permitted in the Kaikōura sanctuary.

18/06/2026

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/politics/598593/controversial-fisheries-amendment-bill-delayed-after-shane-jones-request

The Fisheries Minister is delaying controversial legislation that had already seen a major U-turn on one aspect of the Bill.

15/06/2026

✨THANK YOU✨ to our incredible partners 🐋 Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Did you know that every time you head out on the water with AWADS, you're directly supporting marine mammal research? They generously contribute a percentage from each ticket sold to help fund our work! 🌊🔬

This crucial financial support drives our vital lab work investigating cetacean health 📊

Thank you to the crew for championing marine science, education, and conservation in the Hauraki Gulf!

👉 Be sure to check them out—experiencing the Gulf's marine mammals, you're actively supporting local marine research!

10/06/2026

Our team are in their happy place as a new study gets underway. Dr Emma Betty with PhD student Kiera McGarvey assessing dolphin reproductive tissues at Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Cetacean Pathology Unit - , ,

07/06/2026

🐬🌊 World Oceans Day 2026 🌊🐋

Whales, dolphins and porpoises are among the ocean's most iconic inhabitants, yet many species face increasing pressures from pollution, fisheries interactions, habitat degradation, climate change, underwater noise, and vessel strikes.

This World Oceans Day, we celebrate these remarkable animals and recognise the importance of science, conservation, and community action in helping to ensure that future generations can continue to share our oceans with them.

💙 Healthy oceans need healthy cetacean populations.

Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa, Department of Conservation

06/06/2026

03/06/2026

Yesterday we examined an subadult male common dolphin named Te aurere whatutahi o māwharu, measuring 1.65 m and 48 kg. Gross examination revealed evidence of physiological stress. Ancillary testing is now underway with pathology and microbiology reports expected shortly. Thanks to Patuharakeke for supporting this kaupapa - Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa, Awanui Veterinary, Department of Conservation, , , . 📷 Department of Conservation

02/06/2026

https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360987091/they-did-exactly-right-thing-local-fishers-save-rare-whale?fbclid=IwVERDUASLcZ9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAwzNTA2ODU1MzE3MjgAAR7FqUYy3xnjETgPyaiRUfW-Jpe9jPvO5Gem4ChtHuom4-v4wOSPnKzMaFT5sQ_aem_vq7W6PqiE-8XkkVZqdX1kw

A Department of Conservation disentanglement team travelled from Kaikōura to lead the complex rescue operation.