From time to time it can be very helpful to write a letter of support to the Minister of Conservation or the Minister of Fisheries, urging them to protect marine mammals.

In the next few months, the Ministers of Fisheries (David Benson-Pope) and Conservation (Chris Carter) will be considering whether to increase protection for the critically endangered Hector's (Maui) dolphin population off the west coast of the North Island.

Please write a letter, urging them to protect Hector's dolphins between Maunganui Bluff (just north of Dargaville) and New Plymouth, by banning the use of gillnets and trawling to 4 nautical miles (about 8 km) offshore. Don't forget to mention that you want the harbours (Kaipara, Manukau, Raglan, Kawhia, Aotea and Port Waikato) to be included in the protected area.

For more information, on the North Island Hector's dolphin click here. For information on current marine mammal conservation issues click here.

ccarter@ministers.govt.nz
dbenson-pope@ministers.govt.nz
nzwdtrust@hotmail.com

You can donate towards research and conservation work through the New Zealand Whale and Dolphin Trust. All donations great and small count! The New Zealand Whale and Dolphin Trust is a registered charitable Trust, donations of more than NZ$ 5 are tax deductible (IRD no. 61286969). To make a donation you can choose from the following payment options;

• Send a cheque to the Trust at the address below
• Make a cash advance to our Trust account (see details below)
• Contact our lawyer, Garth Lucas to set up a bequest in your will
• E-mail, write or phone to personally discuss your donation with us.

We appreciate your support!