Drones fly to protect rare New Zealand dolphins

New Zealand's endangered Maui dolphins swim just below the surface of a small stretch of ocean off the west coast of the North Island.

They're being followed overhead by drones tracking their each and every movement, as part of a new government-backed project aimed at protecting the beloved sea creatures.

The Maui Drone Project uses artificial intelligence to find and track down the elusive Maui dolphins.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Friday she has high hopes for the new program.

"Really it's about making sure that where we have those protections, we've put them in the places that Maui dolphins really need them. You know, we have drawn basically geographical areas where we have restricted certain types of fishing, but this will help us understand where they are, their movements, where the extra protections are required."

The project is a one-year collaboration between the Ministry for Primary Industries, non-profit organisation MAUI63 and WWF-New Zealand, with the support of local fisheries.

Officials say the drone technology can collect detailed data on the habitats, population, distribution and behaviour of the dolphins, along with many other marine species such as seabirds and whales.

The drone will also ensure dolphins remain undisturbed as they fly out of the water at an altitude of up to nearly 400 feet (120 meters).

Current estimates suggest that only 63 dolphins age one year and older remain.