Baby fur seal rescued twice in suburban Christchurch

Tuesday 9 December 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Tue 9 Dec 2025, 2:38pm

In this story Department of Conservation

The Department of Conservation has rescued and released a baby fur seal twice after it was spotted near the Heathcote River in Woolston. The pup was picked up after people attempted to interact with it and take it home. Officials are reminding the public that kekeno are not pets.

How they headlined it

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1. The PressTue 9 Dec 2025, 4:00am

   Baby seal rescued and released (twice) after reports of people interacting with it (opens in new tab)

2. RNZTue 9 Dec 2025, 6:23am

   DOC asks people to stay away from seals after pup forms 'unhealthy bond' with humans (opens in new tab)

3. NZ HeraldTue 9 Dec 2025, 2:38pm

   Christchurch baby fur seal rescued twice after suburban wanderings (opens in new tab)