Inquiries continue into Kaikoura seal massacre

DoC Biodiversity Programme Manager Phil Bradfield looks over two of the seals massacred on the Kaikoura coast in December. Photo / Supplied

Police and Department of Conservation investigations are continuing into the massacre of fur seals at Ohau Point, a popular seal viewing point 22km north of Kaikoura.

Last month 25 dead seals, including pups, were found at the site, clubbed to death over a number of days.

Sergeant Barry Hansen of Kaikoura police said they had interviewed several people but wanted to talk to more.

"We've had information come in and we're working our way through that," he told NZPA today.

Department of Conservation South Marlborough area manager Dave Hayes is confident the offenders will be caught.

He told the Marlborough Express DOC had received several calls from members of the public with information.

The department would lay charges under the Protection of Marine Mammals Act when the attackers were caught, Mr Hayes said.

Shocked animal lovers had donated money, including $11,500 from the Sea Shepherd Society, to help find the killers.

Penalties for killing or harming fur seals or other marine mammals include up to six months' jail or fines of up to $250,000.

- NZPA