A ''curious'' critically endangered New Zealand sea lion has been exploring the Esplanade at Kaka Point.
Photographer Hayden Campbell, of Kaka Point, was driving into the seaside hamlet about 1.30pm on Wednesday when he thought he saw a dog that had been hit by a car ''dragging its back legs''.
''But then it kicked it out on to the road and I grabbed my camera.''
The animal appeared to be heading for the local pub, but became aggressive towards him as he approached, he said. Mr Campbell went to the beach to lure the animal off the road.
Department of Conservation conservation services manager David Agnew said the animal was more likely just curious.
''Some individuals are more curious than others, which can sometimes be interpreted as aggression,'' Mr Agnew said.
''But often it can just be curiosity, them wanting to either play or chase or get a reaction.''
