A humpback whale made a rare visit to Whangarei Harbour on Sunday and delighted many of the people on and off the water who saw it.
The whale was just the second humpback whale seen in the harbour in living memory and while whale watching can be a spectacular and thrilling sight, there are strict rules about how to do so if you are lucky enough to see one out at sea.
Here are the rules surrounding whale encounters as per the Marine Mammals Protection Act. Breaking the rules can lead to a maximum penalty of up to two years jail; or a $100,000 fine.
* Do not disturb, harass or make loud noises near marine mammals.
* Contact should be ceased should marine mammals show any signs of becoming disturbed or alarmed.