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ISSUE
Friday, September 25, 2026
Volume 17 . Issue 38
A young seal spotted crossing Hutt Road in Wellington was safely returned to the water on Sunday after Police and the Department of Conservation worked together to move it away from traffic.
Police received reports shortly after 1pm that the seal had been seen crossing Hutt Road, prompting concern for both the animal and motorists.
The seal was spotted by several Wellingtonians before officers located it near Wellington Railway Station.
Senior Sergeant Miriam Bentley from Wellington Police said the seal appeared to be trying to make its way back to the water, which would have required it to cross the road again.
"With guidance from DOC our staff were able to uplift the seal and drive it to a safe place where it was released into the water," says Senior Sergeant Bentley.
"This was collaborative problem solving which prevented any further issues for the young seal and for road users.”
Constables Taylor and Leitch assisted with transporting the seal to a beach for release.
"We were happy to help," says Constable Taylor.
"When I joined Police 15 months ago they said to be ready for anything, so I guess this demonstrates that's true!"
Police are asking members of the public not to intervene if they come across seals in similar situations.
Instead, people are advised to call 111 immediately for Police assistance.
A young seal spotted crossing Hutt Road in Wellington was safely returned to the water on Sunday after Police and the Department of Conservation worked together to move it away from traffic.Police received reports shortly after 1pm that the seal had been seen crossing Hutt Road, prompting concern...
A young seal spotted crossing Hutt Road in Wellington was safely returned to the water on Sunday after Police and the Department of Conservation worked together to move it away from traffic.
Police received reports shortly after 1pm that the seal had been seen crossing Hutt Road, prompting concern for both the animal and motorists.
The seal was spotted by several Wellingtonians before officers located it near Wellington Railway Station.
Senior Sergeant Miriam Bentley from Wellington Police said the seal appeared to be trying to make its way back to the water, which would have required it to cross the road again.
"With guidance from DOC our staff were able to uplift the seal and drive it to a safe place where it was released into the water," says Senior Sergeant Bentley.
"This was collaborative problem solving which prevented any further issues for the young seal and for road users.”
Constables Taylor and Leitch assisted with transporting the seal to a beach for release.
"We were happy to help," says Constable Taylor.
"When I joined Police 15 months ago they said to be ready for anything, so I guess this demonstrates that's true!"
Police are asking members of the public not to intervene if they come across seals in similar situations.
Instead, people are advised to call 111 immediately for Police assistance.
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