Seals are protected under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978.
By RNZ
A video showing a man grabbing a seal pup by the scruff of its neck and putting it into a bag is under serious investigation by the Department of Conservation (DoC).
The video, which has been posted onto social media, shows the man in a wetsuit.
It is an offence under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 to disturb, harass, harm, injure, or kill a seal.
DoC principal investigation officer Matt Davis said the behaviour was inexcusable and would bear consequences for the offender.
“The video is quite distressing, showing someone handling a seal very roughly and possibly injuring the animal.
“DoC has a range of enforcement tools available for punishment of wildlife crimes, including fines, infringements, or a prosecution through the courts, which can lead to a jail sentence.
“While we don’t yet know the full circumstances, there is no excuse for treating a seal like this.”
The penalties for harassing, disturbing, injuring, or killing a marine mammal under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 are maximum two years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to $250,000.
DoC’s advice is to never touch or handle a seal.
People should keep a distance of at least 20 metres from seals, if possible, and not get between the animal and the sea, it said.
DoC is urging the public to contact its emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) to report anyone disturbing fur seals.
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