This is Charlie. He is a direct descendant of ‘Mum’; therefore could be called New Zealand sea lion/pakake royalty. He is nine years old and a big beautiful beast. For the last few days he has been causing much excitement at Macandrew Bay in Dunedin NZ, as sea lions have not been seen at this wee bay for many years. Yesterday I observed the joy Charlie’s presence was bringing the community; children were shrieking with glee every time Charlie moved; he was being frequently photographed from afar by civilian paparazzi; people walking along the footpath were exclaiming “He’s still here!” It was evident many consider sea lions a taonga species to Aotearoa.
As I addressed in my verbal submission to the Clutha District Council about their proposed ‘Vehicles on Beaches Bylaw’; what should trump a minority of the locals opinions “That it is their democratic right to drive on beaches” and “They’ve been doing it forever, so should be able to continue to do so”, is endemic and endangered wildlife. The time is act to conserve endangered species is while they are still in existence.
I remain hopeful that the Clutha District Council will have the courage to adopt the Bylaw to protect sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho, so they may exist in peace, and continue to bring joy to so many in Aotearoa. Thank you to the Department of Conservation for sharing information about Charlie with me!
Photo: Sian Mair. Please note I took this photo from 10 meters away and zoomed in on my camera. 20 meters is preferable.