New Zealand / Conservation

Fur seal pup unfazed by Wellingtonian onlookers while napping on waterfront

13:21 pm on 3 November 2023

A seal pup on Wellington waterfront near Shed 6. Photo: RNZ / Soumya Bhamidipati

A baby New Zealand fur seal has been spotted napping on the Wellington waterfront this afternoon.

Tourists, people on a lunchtime run, and school groups stopped for a look, and to take a quick photo.

One woman attempted to pat the seal before being advised by passersby not to do so.

According to the Department of Conservation, young seals are commonly seen on New Zealand shores from July to September, as pups begin to wean from their mothers.

A fur seal pup enjoys a snooze at Wellington waterfront. Photo: RNZ / Soumya Bhamidipati

A fur seal pup at Wellington waterfront is unfazed by curious onlookers. Photo: RNZ / Soumya Bhamidipati