'Disgusting': Sightseers filmed harassing Kaikōura seal sparks outrage

A video of sightseers visiting a seal spotting hotspot in Kaikōura has gone viral for all the wrong reasons.

The short clip posted to NZ Reddit shows an older woman harassing an innocent seal at the Kaikōura Peninsula.

Kiwis are raging over the five-second interaction, where the woman walks up within metres of the lone with a large cluster of seaweed in tow and throws it over the poor thing, who was just spread out relaxing on the rocks.

The original poster on Reddit explained: “Was at the Seal Colony the other day and witnessed what looked like tourists throwing small rocks at a resting seal. Went up closer and caught them throwing seaweed at it on video.”

They added that they had a stern word with the people involved and told them to leave the area.

Following the incident, the Department of Conservation (DOC) was contacted and the interaction was reported. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much further that could be done.

“[I] would just hate to think this is a regular thing which more could be done to prevent,” the Reddit poster wrote.

They aren’t the only one wanting to keep our flippered friends safe. Naturally, people took their rage out in the comments, with one person writing: “People are the worst.”

“The way I'd be throwing seaweed back at them,” said another.

“What the f*** is wrong with people?” a third questioned. “I wish someone would chuck a pile of wet seaweed on them in the middle of the night as they are sleeping - see if they like it.”

Others have labelled the behaviour as "disgusting", "despicable" and simply "disrespectful" .

Many people are also praising the Redditor for calling out the behaviour of the group.

“Good on you for making them leave. That is the best deterrent for stupid humans,” someone said. “Other people publicly shaming them and stopping their behaviour while they are doing it.”

Another agreed: “Thank you so much for stepping in, genuinely.”

Multiple comments report witnessing similar behaviour during visits.

It’s important to remember that DOC says: “Anywhere you encounter a marine mammal, protect them from stress or displacement.”

When marine mammals are onshore, it’s important to give them plenty of space - stay at least 20 metres away, keep dogs on a leash and well clear, and avoid getting between the seal and the sea.

And I think it goes without saying not to throw objects at them either…

This isn't the first time someone's actions at a popular visitor spot have enraged Kiwis. Last year, an American man's 'tapu' act at top of Mount Maunganui was dubbed "shameful".

It's a great reminder to respect all the things that make Aotearoa such a great place - including our flippered friends.