The Department of Conservation is reminding beach-goers throughout the winter to leave seals and their pups alone to rest on Wanganui beaches.
DoC says it is not uncommon for seal pups to come ashore between July and October while they are being weaned. It is particularly frequent after a storm so they can rest before heading back out to sea.
Senior biodiversity ranger Rachael Abbott says seals do not need help unless severely injured, under threat from people or dogs, or entangled in marine debris.
"Regurgitating, sneezing and coughing are common seal habits, probably to get rid of undigested food and, as they don't have tear ducts, their weepy eyes are a natural mechanism to protect their eyes."
Dr Abbott urges people to watch at a distance, as getting too close to resting seals may cause them to be aggressive.