Source: Department of Conservation
Summer in Aotearoa! It’s that magical time when we flock to the coast, lather up in sunscreen (don’t skimp), and dive into the sparkling ocean. But as we splash about, we’re sharing the water with some pretty cool marine mates. From sharks and dolphins to penguins, seals, sea lions, sea snakes/kraits, shorebirds, and even the occasional whale, summer brings a diverse lineup of oceanic and coastal celebrities.
Let’s dive into what you might encounter—and how to keep your ocean escapades safe and exciting.
Sharks: the summer headliners
Great White Shark | Clinton Duffy
“Are sharks more common in summer?”
Short answer: Yes.
Longer answer: Sharks love summer as much as we do. Coastal species like to pup (that’s shark lingo for having babies) and hunt for the buffet of inshore fish. Increased numbers of fishers and swimmers out on the water combined with calm seas and clearer waters over summer make them easier to spot, which is why shark sightings appear to spike during this time. However, sharks are around our coastlines all year.
But don’t freak out—New Zealand’s waters are home to 113 species of sharks and rays, and most of them couldn’t care less about us. Sharks are like the introverts of the sea: happy doing their own thing unless provoked.
What to do if you see a shark:
• If it’s 1.8m or longer, treat it as “potentially dangerous” (especially if you can’t identify it).
• Stay calm and exit the water like a ninja, not a cannonball.
• Let others know and tell the lifeguards.
• Call 0800 DOCHOT or email sharks@doc.govt.nz if you accidentally catch a great white shark while fishing or if you have any sighting information.
• Remember, sharks are crucial for a healthy marine ecosystem. They’re not villains—they’re the lifeguards of the sea, keeping everything in balance.
Little blue penguins: the cool kids
Kororā (little penguin) at Te Paki | DOC
New Zealand’s adorable little blue penguins (kororā) are like the celebrities of our beaches—short, stylish, and always turning heads. These tiny tuxedo-wearers come ashore at night to nest and can sometimes be spotted swimming near the coast during the day.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one, admire it from a distance. These guys are busy living their best lives, and human interference can stress them out. Fun fact: they’re also the world’s smallest penguin species, which means they’ve mastered being cute and efficient.
Sea snakes: rare but fascinating visitors
Yellow-bellied sea snake | Luis Correa, Creative Commons
Sea snakes and kraits are rare visitors to New Zealand’s shores, but they occasionally make an appearance, usually swept here by warm ocean currents. The most common species spotted is the yellow-bellied sea snake, which is highly venomous but poses little risk if left alone.
What to do if you see a sea snake:
• Keep a safe distance—don’t touch or attempt to move it.
• Note its location and condition, and call 0800 DOC HOT (362 468).
• Sea snakes are a fascinating reminder of the diverse marine life that occasionally drifts into New Zealand waters, so treat them with curiosity and respect!
Dolphins: the ocean’s acrobats
Dolphin at Poor Knights Islands | Mike Aviss
No summer beach trip is complete without a dolphin sighting. These marine superstars love putting on a show, leaping out of the water and racing boats like they’re in the Olympics.
If you’re boating, slow down and give them space to play, feed, and rest. Dolphins are naturally curious, so they might come to say hi. Swimming with dolphins is allowed in some areas, but there are restrictions—for example, no swimming with bottlenose dolphins in some parts of the Bay of Islands or with orca, pilot whales, and other large whales anywhere in New Zealand. Always check local guidelines before getting in the water.
If you discover a dolphin in trouble—stranded, deceased, or entangled—call 0800 DOC HOT (362 468).
Sea turtles: the migrant visitors
Sea Turtle | Nathan Pettigrew
There are five species of sea turtles and none nest in New Zealand, but they are common visitors over spring/summer, mostly around the upper North Island. Green turtles live here all year round. If you find one on the beach, it’s likely not a casual sunbather—it might be sick or injured.
What to do:
• Don’t refloat it!
• Call 0800 DOC HOT (362 468) for advice.
• Let the experts take it from there—they’re pros at getting turtles back to tip-top shape.
Seals and sea lions: the beach bouncers
Sea Lion and Seal | J. L. Kendrick
Seals and sea lions are the ultimate beach regulars, lounging around like they own the place (because they kind of do). While they may look like giant, blubbery teddy bears, it’s best to admire them from a distance—at least 20 metres is the golden rule.
Seal pups are especially curious and adorable, but resist the temptation to approach. Pups are usually weaned within their first year and have a tendency to pop up all around the country as they try to find their way in the world. If you spot one alone, don’t assume it’s in trouble—give it space and let nature take its course.
If you see a seal or sea lion which is severely injured, entangled, in a location where it might be in danger, or being harassed call 0800 DOC HOT (362 468) for advice.
Whales: the ocean giants
Whale rescue in Ruakākā | Lucy Britton
Seeing a whale is a breathtaking experience, but sometimes these gentle giants need a helping hand. If a whale strands on a beach, it’s usually due to illness, injury, or navigational errors. If you’re lucky enough to see a whale when boating or fishing it’s best to give them space and enjoy the experience from a safe distance.
What to do if you encounter a stranded whale:
• Keep your distance and avoid touching it.
• Call 0800 DOC HOT (362 468) immediately.
• Follow any instructions from DOC or Project Jonah—they’ll coordinate the best response.
• While it’s heartbreaking to see a stranded whale, these events provide valuable opportunities to learn about marine life and sometimes to assist in their survival. Just remember, the experts are there to help both the whales and the public.
• Remember to be respectful of deceased wildlife, especially whales, as they can be taonga to mana whenua.
Shorebirds: the coastal caretakers
Tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel) | Don Merton
While you’re enjoying the beach this summer, keep an eye out for some feathered locals—the shorebirds. These coastal characters are busy raising chicks, foraging for food, and generally minding their own business along the sand and dunes.
Species like the tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel) and tarāpuka (black-billed gull) are iconic beachgoers, but they’re also under pressure. Disturbances from humans, dogs, and vehicles can put their nests at risk.
How to help:
• Give shorebirds plenty of space, especially if you spot signs or roped-off nesting areas.
• Keep dogs on a leash and away from sensitive habitats.
• Avoid driving on beaches where shorebirds nest.
• These small steps can make a big difference for these beach-loving birds—and ensure they’ll be around for summers to come!
Sharing the ocean
Summer is the perfect time to explore our beautiful coastline, but it’s also when marine wildlife needs us to be mindful guests. Whether it’s steering clear of a great white shark or giving penguins their space, every small action helps protect the ocean and its inhabitants.
So grab your sunnies, pack your snacks, and hit the beach this summer. And if you’re lucky, you might just spot a dorsal fin in the distance (don’t panic) or a dolphin putting on a show. The ocean is alive with wonders—just remember to share it responsibly.
Happy summer adventures!
