Thesis structure and rationale

Comprehensive management measures in the Marlborough Sounds region are currently being initiated (refer to section 1.7.2). All-inclusive area management requires the consideration of complementary information regarding all invested parties and natural resources (Foley et al., 2010). In QCS, this includes the recognition of three main delphinid species, of which two are Nationally Endangered and the third has an uncertain taxonomic status (Baker et al., 2016). The region is exposed to a number of anthropogenic influences including vessel traffic, marine farming and tourism. Specifically, investigations into dolphin tourism worldwide have indicated a number of proven negative consequences for cetacean species (Christiansen et al., 2014; Meissner et al., 2015; Steckenreuter et al., 2011). This industry is on the rise globally (O'Connor et al., 2009), while local interest has been expressed by operators to obtain additional permits (pers. comm., R. Grose, November 2011).

These collective conditions in QCS create the urgent need for delphinid research. Conservation management will benefit from understanding delphinid species’ temporal and spatial trends (e.g., for MSP). These data are particularly important considering the lack of previous quantitative multi-species delphinid data in QCS. Likewise, current trends of swim-with- dolphin tourism are a crucial component in evolving regional management measures. Previous tourism-based studies in QCS have been non-existent despite the presence of regional dolphin

tourism for nearly 20 years. This research aims to establish baseline trends in delphinid distribution, density and habitat use. Likewise, swim tourism is investigated for the first time to explore local industry characteristics and dolphin engagement in swim activities. The scope of this work strives to contribute to integrative management goals.

This thesis is comprised of four research chapters (Chapters 2–5). It is prefaced by this general introduction (Chapter 1) and concludes with an overall discussion (Chapter 6). The chapters have been written in a format as preparation for publication. As a result, some repetition exists; however, reference was made within the thesis to other sections to avoid reiteration as much as possible. Each chapter is summarised as follows:

Chapter 1 provides background information on the major themes presented in the thesis. These include a literature review focused on focal species biology and habitat; animal interactions amongst sympatric species and habitat use. Sources of cetacean data, data collection and some analytical techniques are explored. Current threats, anthropogenic influences and local management issues including cetacean tourism are also discussed. This chapter was written by C.L. Cross and improved by edits from K.A. Stockin.

Chapter 2 explores the advantages of employing historical sighting records through the investigation of patterns of Hector’s, bottlenose and dusky dolphin occurrence, distribution and swim tourism in QCS. Data were collated from a collection of historical tour vessel logbooks that were regularly maintained from 1995–2011. Delphinid temporal and spatial data were standardised by the number of vessel trips. Temporal trends were correlated with associated environmental data. The frequency of occurrence of dolphin swim events during tours was assessed. Sighting location data were explored using a geographic information system (GIS). C.L. Cross collated the data provided by E-Ko Tours (formerly known as Dolphinwatch & Nature Tours), with generous help from D. Pook, S. Kerr and R. White. Environmental data were generously provided by NOAA and LINZ. Suggestions on aspects of modelling provided by A.M. Meissner were incorporated. C.L. Cross analysed the data and wrote the chapter with statistical advice from M.D.M. Pawley. Edits were provided by K.A. Stockin, D.M. Clement and M.D.M. Pawley.

Chapter 3 describes and compares patterns in distribution, density and range of Hector’s, bottlenose and dusky dolphins in QCS. Data were collected year-round via opportunistic, non-

systematic boat-based surveys from 2011–2014. Seasonal relative densities were assessed via comparison of dolphin encounter and sighting rates. Techniques in GIS were utilised to calculate kernel density estimates and species’ range. Furthermore, species overlap was calculated. The study was designed by C.L. Cross with input from K.A. Stockin and D.M. Clement. Data collection and analyses were conducted by C.L. Cross. Advice with statistical analyses was provided by M.D. Pawley and D.M. Clement and guidance with GIS was provided by R. Summers. The chapter was written by C.L. Cross and improved by edits from M.D.M. Pawley, D.M. Clement and K.A. Stockin.

Chapter 4 explores habitat use of Hector’s, bottlenose and dusky dolphins in QCS. Dynamic and static covariates associated with delphinid density were investigated using GAMs. The significant model variables were used to generate spatial predictions indicating where dolphins may occur. Environmental data were generously provided by MDC and NIWA. Data were collected and modelled by C.L. Cross. M.D.M. Pawley and L.P. Garrison were consulted for statistical advice on aspects of modelling. The chapter was written by C.L. Cross and improved by edits from M.D.M. Pawley, D.M. Clement and K.A. Stockin.

Chapter 5 examines bottlenose dolphin swim-with-dolphin tourism in QCS. As a first assessment of swim tourism in the region, the characteristics of target groups and operator techniques were explored. Furthermore, bottlenose dolphin engagement during swim-with- dolphin encounters was assessed via several proxies. C.L. Cross designed the study with help from K.A. Stockin. Statistical advice was provided by M.P.M. Pawley. Data were collected and analysed by C.L. Cross. Improvements were made as suggested by M.D.M. Pawley and K.A. Stockin.

Chapter 6 concludes by synthesising the findings of the data chapters in respect to one another and highlights the important scientific contributions of this work. Moreover, the applications of these findings to conservation management were explored. A number of explicit recommendations were outlined.