Love them from a distance or lose them forever

Traveling in New Zealand most chances are that you will encounter wildlife. Please read this short article about how to act around the wildlife you meet.

Hector dolphins/Papakanua
Might be seen along the Catlins Coast, Porpoise Bay or in Te Waewae Bay.
To avoid disturbing these dolphins it is best to watch them from the shore and not go swimming with them.

Yellow-eyed penguins/Hoiho
Best seen from the viewing hide at Roaring Bay and at the Nuggets/Tokata.
Never approach a penguin, they are and sensitive birds.
If you think a penguin has seen you, please leave the area.
Don’t take your dog near penguins. Dogs kill penguins.

New Zealand sea lions/Rapoka and fur seals/Kekeno
Best seen at Cannibal Bay and Surat Bay.
Never go between them and the sea. The sea is their escape route.
Never go closer than 20 meters.
Male New Zealand sea lions may be aggressive during the breeding season (summer). Be careful and keep your dog on a leash.

Dolphins, seals, sea lions and penguins are fully protected under New Zealand law. It is illegal to disturb them.