Department of Conservation ranger Moss Thompson said based on the colour and the size of the smaller animal, it was likely a female, although it was hard to tell as young males did not develop their dark coats until about 3 or 4 years of age.
He said there were tender moments during courtship.
For the most part, sexually mature males tried to control females and keep them in their harem, so females got a bit fed up and squabbles would break out.
Females avoided being targeted by males during this time by heading inland and hiding away in urban areas so people were urged to keep an eye out for the animals on roads or paths, and in parks and gardens.
Mr Thompson said mating occurred roughly 10 days after the females had pupped, so it was still a little early to see mating, but the males were definitely patrolling the beaches and looking for potential mates.
— Allied Media
