New Zealand fur seal, Antipodes Islands
Kekeno (New Zealand fur seal) are the most common seals in New Zealand waters.
Kekeno are very good swimmers and weaned pups will turn up almost anywhere around New Zealand. A fur seal pup tagged on the west coast of South Island has even been recorded in Australia. On land they sometimes become disoriented and have been found in unusual places such as back-yards, drains and streets.
Did you know that the New Zealand fur seal dives deeper and longer than any other fur seal? Learn more about this species in this section.
Protected under the Marine Mammals Act, New Zealand fur seals face a number of threats from human disturbances. Learn more about these threats.
Find out about DOC's New Zealand fur seal conservation activities.
If you see a fur seal please leave it undisturbed. Learn other ways you can protect this marine mammal.
Watch this video from the Nelson/Marlborough region. Nic finds out about how the NZ fur seal is making a return from the brink of extinction.
The seal deal - caring for kekeno together
Diet of fur seals Arctocephalus forsteri at Tonga Island, Abel Tasman National Park (PDF, 155K)
Seals factsheet (PDF, 200K)
Marine and coastal conservation
If you find a seal that is severely injured, or entangled in marine debris, or being harassed by people or dogs call the DOC HOTline 0800 362 468
For other enquiries, contact your nearest DOC office
