A German tourist received nasty bites when he crossed paths with a "grumpy seal" at Abel Tasman National Park.
The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter was called to the incident at Separation Point this afternoon.
The rescue service said the man "was taught a harsh lesson about New Zealand wildlife after he crossed paths with a grumpy seal".
"The 18-year-old man had been tramping in the park with a friend when he visited the point, and decided to take a swim off the rocks below the lighthouse.
"Resident seals in the area took exception to his presence and attacked him, delivering nasty bite wounds to both lower legs."