Seals

Fur seals sometimes find the road a pleasant place to lie to soak up the sun, but this can be particularly hazardous for both the mammals and road users. Around Kaikoura, where there is a large New Zealand fur seal population, the Transport Agency, its contractors and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are working together to make the highways safer for seals and road users. Road contractors, funded through the NLTP, who are responsible for maintaining the safe and efficient operation of the state highways have been specially trained and certified by DOC in the safe and quick removal of the fur seals from the road and back to their natural habitat in situations where they pose a hazard.

The growing tourist attraction of viewing fur seal pups playing around the Ohau stream and waterfall north of Kaikoura is another focus of collaboration by the Transport Agency and DOC. Both organisations are examining the safety and parking issues caused by motorists stopping to view the site, while at the same time ensuring the protection and maintenance of the natural environment for these mammals.

The Transport Agency has signed a new memorandum of understanding with DOC to work collaboratively across a wide range of issues including tourist signage and management of the department’s roads.