A group of nine Whanganui trampers made the decision to turn back after encountering a group of seals on Wednesday.
The nine started at Ototoka Beach and walked north toward Waiinu. After about 5km of deserted grey sand beach they were thrilled by seeing two young seals. The youngsters were resting above the high tide line.
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Then, at a place near Snapper Rock, there was a group of three adult and two younger seals. Most of that group moved into the sea when the trampers arrived.
They stayed swimming just offshore, watching the intruders.