It would appear that Whakatane's summer tourist attraction, Moko (the bottlenose dolphin) has moved around the coast to Tauranga. The Department of Conservation (DOC) advise that there are some simple things to keep Moko and yourself safe.

"We're so lucky to have Moko visiting us here in Tauranga, we want to ensure that the area is remembered in positive terms around Moko - not the place where someone was seriously injured or someone hurt our friendly dolphin" said DOC Tauranga Area Manager Andrew Baucke.

"Our message is simple, remember that he is a wild animal and his behaviour can't always be predicted.

"We would like to advise people that are thinking of seeing Moko this weekend, to just bring yourselves and leave all toys at home. We don't want to see people vying for Moko's attention by bringing down man made objects - during his time in Whakatane, everyone had a more relaxed time with him when there weren't multiple objects in the water with Moko trying to play with everything at once.

"We also think that it is inappropriate to spend hours at a time in the water with him. Being a long weekend, there is the potential for large crowds and we encourage everyone to respect that he is a wild animal. Please also be respectful that others want to share time with him, so don't stay too long.

"The biggest safety concerns for Moko are around boat propellers and various tethering lines and nets. If you are wanting to take a private vessel out to see him, ensure that within 300 metres you drop the boat speed to low, or no wake.

Mr Baucke finished by saying "Make the most of our special friend while he is around our shores. But please carefully consider your actions. If you look after yourself properly, the chances are you will be looking after Moko too."

Guidelines for swimming with Moko

He is a large, strong, wild animal, not a pet. If you get the chance to swim with Moko, for his sake and your own safety, please respect the following guidelines:

* Ensure that children are well supervised when in the water near Moko

* Consider wearing a life jacket, especially for your children and if you are not a strong swimmer

* Do not try to handle Moko

* Dolphins have sensitive skin, please remove protruding jewellery such as watches and rings

* Refrain from 'scratching' him with your fingernails

* Do not take stringed or roped 'toys' that could entangle Moko

* Do not surround the dolphin - always allow him to have an escape route where he can safely move to deep water

* Do not attempt to ride or be towed by Moko

If you have any concerns for Moko's welfare please call 0800 DOCHOT (362468)