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A pod of killer whales made a splash with boaties in the Hauraki Gulf yesterday.
The orcas were first spotted off Rangitoto about 10am, and 20 minutes later seen near the Bean Rock lighthouse, 1km off Mission Bay.
"One came up so close we could have touched it," said Grant Campbell, from Coastguard Northern Region. "It blew water over the back of the boat."
The pod then returned to Rangitoto, where they hunted for rays at Islington Bay.
Orca expert Dr Ingrid Visser identified a large male from photographs as Spike, named for his large spike-like dorsal fin.
She also recognised a female, Dian, after spotting an old wound caused by a boat.
Visser said there had been several orca sightings lately as they came into the bays to hunt for rays. Islington Bay was a favourite haunt.
Campbell said there were at least seven orca in the pod.
Visser said orca visits were more common in winter months but there is no real season.
They might not be seen for three months and then visit every month for a while.
If you spot an orca, call 0800 733 6722 to help with research.
