Napier's seal pup is in danger of becoming reliant on humans

DoC is asking the public not to feed seals because this keneko pup is becoming reliant on humans for food. Photo / Supplied

The Department of Conservation is asking people not to feed a seal pup that has been hanging around Napier's inner harbour.

DoC says the kekeno, or New Zealand fur seal, has been hand-fed over the past three weeks, and is beginning to rely on humans as a result.

Ahuriri-Napier acting operations manager Moana Smith-Dunlop said this is detrimental to the seal, as well as being dangerous to humans and dogs.

"This pup is starting to rely on humans to feed it, which will be a problem when it is older because it won't be able to fend for itself.

"Dead fish and high-energy human food are not treats, they disrupt the kekeno's natural diet and behaviour."

Smith-Dunlop said the seal will also go after bait on fishing lines when people are not around to feed it, which could result in fish hooks getting stuck in its mouth.

Kekeno also posed a risk to humans.

"Kekeno will bite if they feel threatened, and the bacteria in their mouth can cause quite nasty infections."

DoC's recommendation was that people stay at least 20m away from seals. They can inflict serious injuries to humans and dogs.

There was expected to be an influx of keneko pups and juveniles appearing on land until the end of September as they wean from their mothers.

DoC takes a hands-off approach when it comes to seals, because they are resilient and will normally find their way home if given time and space.

However, DoC rangers will intervene if the kekeno is in notably poor condition, immediate danger, tangled in debris, causing disruption or being harassed by people or dogs.

If people are worried about a seal being in danger, injured or harassed by people or dogs they should call the emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

It is an offence to disturb, harass, harm, injure or kill a seal. Dog owners can be prosecuted if their dog attacks a seal.