Trans-Tasman kaykers' shark encounter

James Castrission and Justin Jones expect to see more sharks during the next leg of their Trans-Tasman kayak journey.

Two kayakers attempting to cross the Tasman have had an encounter with sharks.

James Castrission and Justin Jones came across the sharks shortly after Mr Jones had been in the water cleaning barnacles off their boat.

Spokesman Tom Mitchell says one of the sharks was about two and a half metres long, half the size of the kayak. He says the sharks started nudging the boat and at that point it made sense to settle back into the hull of the kayak.

Mr Mitchell says the men may encounter more sharks, as they are common in the part of the Tasman they are paddling at the moment.

The kayakers hope to reach Cornwallis Beach in west Auckland on 11th January.

- NEWSTALK ZB