Leopard seal warning

New Plymouth: Taranaki beachgoers are being warned to take care around a 1.8mlong leopard seal that has been spotted at several locations along the province’s coastline over the past week.

Sightings of leopard seals are uncommon in the North Island, and although the Taranaki arrival looks a little worse for wear, the Department of Conservation is warning members of the species can give a nasty bite.

‘‘Our key message for the public is to keep clear of her — to give her at least 20m of space, keep dogs on a leash, and make sure children are at a safe distance and understand she needs to be left alone,’’ Marine Ranger Cameron Hunt said. — RNZ