27 Jan 2010

No action being taken over dolphin incident

3:05 pm on 27 January 2010

The Department of Conservation says it will not take any further action against a person in a canoe who reportedly hit a dolphin with a paddle two weeks ago.

The incident occurred in Omaio Bay near Opotiki when Moko the dolphin tried to stop a waka, or canoe, heading to shore.

East Coast/Hawke's Bay Conservator Henry Weston says an investigation has determined there was insufficient evidence for a prosecution under the Marine Mammals Protection Act.

He says the case was difficult as the dolphin actively seeks human interaction.

Due to the lack of evidence, no formal warning has been issued.