Orca pod stuns Waikato surfers, drops in on waves to create ‘unforgettable’ encounter

What started as a typical surf session at Sunset Beach, Port Waikato, turned into a breathtaking encounter with nature for Liam Davies and Alex Griffiths.

The two surfers were joined in the waves by a pod of inquisitive orcas – creating an “unforgettable” close encounter for the pair.

Originally from Wales, Davies said he and Griffiths entered the water about 8am today and had been surfing for about an hour when another person mentioned a pod of whales was nearby.

The pod of orca lingered in the bay for about 15 minutes. Photo / Supplied

“We kept an eye out, but I didn’t see anything at first,” Davies said.

Eventually, the orca came to check out the surfers.

“I was paddling back out, diving under waves, and I came up to see this massive orca whale surfing the wave right in front of me.

“It was incredible. I’ve never seen anything like it,” he said.

Despite the whale’s size and proximity, Davies was not concerned.

Surfer Liam Davies says the moment he was joined in the surf by a pod of orca whales was "unforgettable". Photo / Supplied

“I think they know what they’re doing in the water. They’re quite playful, I think they were just coming for a little nosy, seeing what we were up to.”

The orcas only briefly rode the waves but lingered in the area for about 15 minutes before departing the bay.

“Everyone in the cafe above was screaming and going wild,” Davies said.

The action was captured by Davies’ and Griffiths’ girlfriends, Yasmin and Nina, who took photos and videos from the beach.

“I’m just non-stop thinking about it and looking at the photos. Time just froze as it glided past. You can’t explain the feeling,” Davies said.

“I’m just feeling super grateful for it.”

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