Population: the last total population estimate was 200,000 in 2001. It will be higher now, but unknown by how much.
Threat status: least concern (population trend: increasing).
Found on: rocky shores throughout mainland New Zealand, the Chatham Islands, and the subantarctic islands, as well as parts of Australia.
Seals are very good swimmers and weaned pups will sometimes travel great distances. On land seals have been found in unusual places such as backyards, drains and streets.
Despite these odd appearances, seals are best left alone with no human intervention.