There have been an increasing number of sightings of New Zealand sea lions/pakake crossing the roads in Ōtepoti Dunedin and the east coast of the Otago Region.
Sea lions are classified ‘Endangered’, are indigenous and are a taonga species to Ngāi Tahu, among many other Kiwi’s.
We believe sea lions are crossing the roads more frequently, because they were abundant across Aotearoa before humans arrived; therefore, they have not evolved with vehicles and do not understand the threats vehicles pose them.
Please drive SLOWLY along roads adjacent to beaches, as there may be a sea lion present. It is also their breeding season, and a cow may have a pup in tow. When visiting the beach, please choose to walk on to the beach, rather than drive. Thank you!
Photo: John Burke, New Zealand Sea Lion Trust.