Effectiveness of a voluntary code of conduct in reducing vessel traffic around dolphins

A voluntary “rest period” to supplement mandatory regulations off Kaikoura, New Zealand, was effective in reducing, but not eliminating vessel traffic around dolphin groups. The non-rest periods had a mean of 2.63 interactions/h, significantly more than the rest periodʹs mean 1.46 interactions/h. Mean interactions per hour during rest and non-rest periods was significantly different for weekdays, but not for weekends. Without education that targets users on the presence of voluntary codes of conduct, why they were developed and the benefits to the animals and community in following the regulations, it is unlikely that participation will be sustained.