Why the Hector's Dolphin Is at the Heart of Everything We Do
12 September 2026Every 12th of September, World Dolphin Day turns attention to dolphins around the globe. The threats they face, the waters they call home, and the work being done to protect them. For us, it's not just an awareness day on the calendar. It's the day closest to our name.
Meet the Hector's Dolphin
Hector's dolphins are found nowhere else on Earth but the coastal waters of New Zealand, predominantly around the South Island, with occasional individuals recorded further north. They're one of the smallest dolphin species in the world, growing to around 1.5 metres, and instantly recognisable by their distinctive rounded dorsal fin.
There are only around 15,000 Hector's dolphins over one year old, and they're classified as Nationally Vulnerable. Fishing nets and disease, particularly toxoplasmosis, are among their biggest threats, alongside pressures such as boat strikes and human activity along our coastlines.
The same coastline we grew up on, and the same one our gin is built around.
Why We Carry Their Name
When we named Hector's, it wasn't a branding exercise. The Hector's dolphin is native, coastal, and found only in New Zealand waters, it’s as native as the kiwi, and just as much a part of what makes this country's coastline what it is. Our bottle carries a Hector's dolphin engraving at its base for the same reason. It's not a mascot; it's a reminder of what we're here to protect and our values as a brand.
Our Partnership with the NZ Whale and Dolphin Trust
Since day one, a portion of Hector's proceeds have gone toward supporting the NZ Whale and Dolphin Trust, the people doing the actual work of research, advocacy, and on-the-water protection for species like this one. It's why we can talk about conservation without it being a hollow claim on a label.
This year, off the back of an incredible five months since our rebrand, we've been able to give more than ever.
What You Can Do This World Dolphin Day
You don't need a boat or a marine biology degree to make a difference today. A few small things go a long way.
- Learn about the Hector's and Māui dolphin populations through the NZ Whale and Dolphin Trust
- Report dolphin sightings if you're out on the water. Sighting data helps researchers track population health
- Choose seafood and marine tourism operators that follow dolphin-safe practices
- Support the charities working in this space, whether that's a donation, a share, or simply learning their story
However you mark it, we'll be raising a glass to the dolphin that gave us our name, and the coastline we're all lucky enough to share with them.