Moko the Dolphin - Report

Moko the Dolphin

Mokotahi the dolphin, Moko for short, was a significance to not only Tauranga, but also to Mahia Beach and Whakatane. At first, he lived at Mahia Beach for two years; from 2007 to 2009. While he lived at Mahia Beach, he became famous by rescuing two stranded pygmy sperm whales. He was in Time Magazine’s top ten list for the world’s most heroic animals. In 2009, he moved to Waikanae Beach in Gisborne. He resided there for half a year before moving to Whakatane for five months before following a fishing boat to Tauranga. He was found dead on the 7th of July on Matakana Island, besides Mount Maunganui.

Moko was without a doubt, a unique dolphin. He would play with humans rather than with dolphins. Amy Taylor, creator of the Soul in the Sea documentary says, “The first time I met him we were playing fetch with a dead baby hammerhead shark he brought me.” No one knows why he would rather be with human company, but he hasn’t been the only dolphin to do so. There has been around 100 solo cetaceans to be friendly with humans throughout recorded history.

Moko’s uniqueness has had an impact on many in Tauranga. People would enjoy playing with him and it wouldn’t be unusual to see him stealing a boogie board (as seen in figure 1 and 2) but after a certain period of time of living in Tauranga, some people would say that he needed company all the time, whereas others would say they should leave him alone. Overall though, it amazed many how one dolphin could have such an impact on a community.

Moko’s death affected many across New Zealand. “I was very shocked and sad when I found out he died. It was much like finding a friend who had passed away.” Says Amy Taylor. Even John Hedley, who named Moko after the Mokotahi Headland says, “It's as bad as a human life gone,” Some people have cried as they grieved for their lost friend. Since Moko’s body was found 2 weeks late, it had decomposed, making it hard to see if he had any wounds.The cause of his death will forever remain a mystery.

In conclusion, Moko was a beloved New Zealand icon who touched the hearts of many. He will always remain in memory to all, especially the ones lucky enough to experience seeing him. Even though he’s passed away, he will continue to live on forever in the hearts of kiwis.