Napier's Marineland is being investigated for allegedly taking fur seals from the wild.
Fur seals at Marineland may have been sourced from the wild, despite the centre having only a Department of Conservation permit to keep captive-bred protected animals.
Marineland could face a fine of up to $20,000 per animal.
Napier City Council, as owner of Marineland, was investigating and would not comment.
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.
Latest from New Zealand
Ōtaki industrial fire rages as crews work to extinguish flames
It is not yet clear how the fire started.