Science Night 29: Popoto/Māui Dolphin

Join us at our first Science Night for 2025 with an enlightening presentation by esteemed marine biologists Professor Liz Slooten and Professor Steve Dawson, who will share some of their extensive research on the critically endangered Popoto, also known as the Māui dolphin. 

Professor Liz Slooten, a faculty member at the University of Otago's Department of Zoology, has dedicated over four decades to the study and conservation of New Zealand's native dolphin species. Her pioneering work began in the mid-1980s, when she and Professor Dawson conducted the first in-depth survey of Hector's dolphins, covering approximately 4,500 nautical miles of New Zealand's coastline in a small inflatable boat.

Professor Steve Dawson, also from the University of Otago, specializes in marine mammal research and has collaborated closely with Professor Slooten throughout his career.Together, they have made significant contributions to understanding dolphin behavior, population dynamics, and the impacts of human activities on these vulnerable species.

Their joint efforts have been instrumental in advocating for protective measures to ensure the survival of both Hector's and Māui dolphins.
Their unwavering commitment to marine conservation was recognized in 2004 when they received the Charles Fleming Award for Environmental Achievement from the Royal Society of New Zealand.

During this presentation, Professors Slooten and Dawson will discuss the current status of the Māui dolphin population, the challenges these dolphins face, and the conservation strategies needed to protect them. This is a unique opportunity to gain insights from two of New Zealand's leading experts in marine biology and conservation.

Don't miss this chance to learn about the vital efforts being made to save one of the world's rarest dolphins. 

Nau mai, haere mai! This is a FREE event held in the front bar of the Harbourview Hotel.
Arrive early if you want to order dinner, a drink and snag a good table. Science Night commences at 7pm.

Liz Slooten and Steve Dawson are Trustees of The New Zealand Whale and Dolphin Trust. A world-class, research driven organisation totally committed to the conservation of New Zealand’s whales and dolphins.
whaledolphintrust.org.nz

Learn more about Science Night here:
whaingaroa.org.nz/science-night

Many thanks to our Science Night funders The Sargood Bequest: www.sargoodbequest.org.nz