New Zealand whale & dolphin watch operators 'Whale Watch Kaikoura' are due to expand into the Australian market with the opening of their new company Whale Watch Australia.

The Whale Watch Conservation Policy states that “We are visitors to the world of the whales and respect it as such at all times", therefore the Marine Connection is concerned by their decision to work in associaton with Sea World Australia, a captive facility on Australia's Gold Coast, which houses dolphins and other animals including seals, sea lions, dugongs, polar bears and sharks.

Whale watching is an important way of informing the public on the need to appreciate dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, therefore by teaming up with a captive facility whilst at the same time promoting themselves as a company that cherishes and respects the natural world gives a confusing message to the public about their stance on the welfare, conservation and protection of these animals.

Whale Watch invested $5million with Sea World and Operations Manager of Whale Watch Kaikoura, Kauahi Ngapora recently stated that "Anything is possible, this is just the start of it. Our first plunge overseas and it sets us up for any other possiblities that come along."

Take Action

Please email Whale Watch Kaikoura stating your concern at the company's decision to work in association with a facility that keeps and profits from captive marine mammals - which is surely in contradiction of their policy.