Watch New Zealand sea lions, the world's rarest sea lion, hauled out on the wild beaches of the Otago Peninsula and the Catlins near Dunedin. A few of these recovering animals rest at spots like Sandfly Bay, Allans Beach and Surat Bay, watched for free from the sand at a respectful distance of at least 10 metres. They can be seen year-round, with the best chances in winter from June to August.
Watch New Zealand sea lions, the world's rarest sea lion, hauled out on the wild beaches of the Otago Peninsula and the Catlins near Dunedin. A few of these recovering animals rest at spots like Sandfly Bay, Allans Beach and Surat Bay, watched for free from the sand at a respectful distance of at least 10 metres. They can be seen year-round, with the best chances in winter from June to August.
Up to 62% sighting chance in Otago Peninsula and The Catlins (Dunedin, New Zealand). Best months: June, July, August.
On Otago Peninsula beaches such as Sandfly Bay and Allans Beach near Dunedin, and in the Catlins at Surat Bay, Cannibal Bay and Nugget Point.
Keep at least 10 metres away and never get between a sea lion and the sea; they are endangered, powerful and can move fast up the beach.
Year-round, as they are resident, with sightings most likely in winter from June to August.
New Zealand sea lions are the world's rarest sea lion, slowly recolonising the mainland from subantarctic islands, so sightings are special but never guaranteed.
