Risso's Dolphin

Risso’s dolphin is a large oceanic dolphin occasionally recorded in New Zealand. Heavily scarred adults are distinctive. It has a blunt head without a beak and a tall curved dorsal fin. Adults reach 3–4 metres and become paler with age.

It prefers deep water along continental slopes and submarine canyons. Records are scattered around both main islands. It usually travels in small groups and eats mainly squid. Many scars result from social interactions or prey.

The species is Data Deficient nationally. Its abundance and trend in New Zealand are uncertain. Deep-water trips over Kaikōura Canyon or beyond the Hauraki Gulf occasionally encounter it. Sightings are not reliable.