A yellow-bellied sea snake like this one was seen in the Cooper St area at Gisborne's Wainui Beach on Sunday afternoon. The Department of Conservation urged the public to keep a keen eye out for it and keep well away if one is spotted. Photo / Supplied
A yellow-bellied sea snake like this one was seen in the Cooper St area at Gisborne's Wainui Beach on Sunday afternoon. The Department of Conservation urged the public to keep a keen eye out for it and keep well away if one is spotted. Photo / Supplied
The Department of Conservation has received a report of a venomous sea snake being spotted at Gisborne’s Wainui Beach.
It was reported about 1pm on Sunday at the Cooper St beach access.
DoC received reports on two occasions of a sea snake being seen at Muriwai shortly before Christmas.
“Whilesea snakes are generally docile and there is no record of anyone in New Zealand being bitten, they are still highly venomous so should be avoided,” DoC said.
“If you spot a sea snake, keep yourself (and kids or dogs) well away and call 0800 DOC HOT for advice, and please do not harm them as they are protected by the Wildlife Act.
“If you are bitten by a venomous sea snake/krait, seek medical attention immediately. The National Poisons Centre also offers a 24/7 service on 0800 POISON.”
The creatures are non-resident in New Zealand waters and arrive on ocean currents more by accident than design, as the waters here are too cold for them to survive.
It is illegal to kill or harass a sea snake or to possess one, or part of one, without Wildlife Act authorisation.
