Tourists and crew were treated to a fabulous performance from Explore NZ’s Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari, when a female humpback and her calf gave an impressive display alongside the vessel.
This comes after a similar demonstration of power and grace by these amazing mammals in the Bay of Islands, during a Swim with Dolphins cruise on 30th November.
This is only the second time since the 1960′s that a mother and calf humpback whale have been seen in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
Dolphin Explorer captain Andy Light was still buzzing last night as he described the experience shared with about 40 tourists when they came across the pair between Waiheke Island and Cape Colville.
“They were jumping out of the water. The baby probably did about 30 breaches and came within 20m of the boat.
“They are the showoff of the whale world and to see them in the Hauraki Gulf is incredible. It’s a very rare experience.”
He has skippered tourist boats in the gulf for 11 years and had only seen humpback whales once, Light said.
“We had an American family and they said it was the highlight of anything they’ve ever done. Everyone was walking off with smiles.” he said.
Read the New Zealand Herald on Sunday story: http://bit.ly/uqAwMs
Watch unedited video on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/ExploreNZ
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images: copyright Explore NZ/Krista Rankmore NZCDP
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