People out swimming in the waters of Tauranga are reminded to stay vigilant, with great white shark sightings on the rise.
Tauranga Harbour Photo: 123RF
There's been a large number of sightings in the Bowentown area of the Tauranga Harbour and also along the coastline, marine biologist Melissa Kellett said.
"Since May 2020 we have continued to receive reports of great white sharks in the area year-round and spread out through the Tauranga district. The size estimates of these sharks have been between 1.5m - 3.5m in length indicating they are primarily juveniles and sub-adults."
Great white sharks often develop a preference for a particular site, returning regularly, DOC marine expert Clinton Duffy said.
Duffy says anyone who spots a great white shark should get out of the water quickly and calmly and report the sighting to DOC.
"Sharks are predatory animals but do not normally perceive humans as prey and most encounters with white sharks do not result in the shark biting the human.
"If you are visiting the ocean you need to be a little bit vigilant and aware of what's happening around you and swim where there are surf lifesaving patrols, and don't swim or dive alone.
"If you are heading out on the water exercise caution and avoid swimming in the main channels where there are a lot of birds diving, or berleying from kayaks and jet skis when fishing."
Photos have so far has identified six individual great whites in the area and DOC will continue to monitor photos and video footage to determine if new sightings are of these sharks or new marine visitors to the area.