Common dolphins are abundant in New Zealand waters. They travel in large groups and work together to hunt schools of fish. As common dolphins feed on mackerel there are times when fishing and dolphin feeding activities overlap. To minimise interactions with dolphins, DWG has implemented procedures that fishermen agree to follow such as checking to ensure dolphins are not around when setting the net. Training is carried out to ensure all crew understand these procedures and why they should be followed. The Ministry for Primary Industries monitors and audits the fleet’s performance against these procedures. There is also concern for the small Maui dolphin population. However, there is no overlap with where the Maui dolphin is found and deepwater fisheries.