New Zealand Sea Lion

The New Zealand sea lion, whakahao or pakake, is an endemic pinniped centred on southern New Zealand. Most breeding occurs on the Auckland Islands. Sea lions have blunt muzzles and short whiskers. Adult males develop a dark mane and can approach 3 metres and 450 kilograms.

Major colonies occur on Auckland and Campbell islands, with breeding on Rakiura, the Catlins and Otago Peninsula. Females may travel inland through dunes and forest. They forage for fish, squid, octopus and crustaceans. Large males compete for breeding space while females return ashore to nurse pups.

The current NZTCS status is Nationally Endangered. Fisheries interactions, disease and population decline are key concerns. Sandfly Bay, Surat Bay and selected Rakiura beaches provide opportunities. Never block an animal’s route or approach closely.