Bottlenose Dolphin

(Tursiops truncatus)

IUCN Status: Least Concern

NZ Classification: Nationally Endangered

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The bottlenose dolphin earns its name from the shape of its short beak and lower jaw which looks like a permanent grin. These dolphins are gracefully athletic – swimming at speeds of up to 50km/h and leaping up to an extraordinary 5 metres in the air.

Bottlenose dolphins are also a chattering bunch. If you listen carefully, you can hear their squeaks, clicks and whistles from the boat.

Keen to learn more? Check out the smaller Common Dolphin and the Orca/Killer Whale (yes, they’re actually part of the dolphin family!)

Book your seat for your chance to see bottlenose dolphins on our next Auckland whale and dolphin tour.