Where to see seals in New Zealand

You can drive right along the peninsula, with campervan-friendly roads and marked viewing areas to stop and take it all in. Seals are often seen here year-round, so there’s no bad time to visit. 

Where to stay in Dunedin: 
Dunedin Holiday Park & Motels is just a short drive from the Otago Peninsula. The park has a good mix of powered campervan sites, kitchen facilities, hot showers, and even a games room if you’re travelling with kids. It’s a relaxed place to recharge and a great base for checking out the local wildlife or heading into the city for a look around. 

Other noteworthy seal spots around NZ

If you’re keen to add a few more stops to your travel itinerary, there are plenty of other seal hangouts worth checking out along the way. These spots offer a mix of walking tracks, coastal views, and the chance to see seals doing their thing in the wild. 

• On the West Coast, the walkway at Cape Foulwind is a solid pick, with a well-maintained path and a viewing platform that often gives you a front-row seat to seal action.  

• In the Nelson–Tasman region, Abel Tasman National Park is a good place to spot them from a kayak or along the coastal track. 

• Further south, Banks Peninsula and the town of Akaroa offer the chance to see seals as part of a day exploring the harbour – possibly with dolphins thrown in too. 

• And at Nugget Point in the Catlins, you’ll find a dramatic clifftop walkway with excellent views down to the rocks below, where seals often gather. 

Best times to see seals in New Zealand

While seals can be seen throughout the year, there are certain seasons when your chances of spotting them – and seeing interesting behaviours – are much higher. Timing your visit can make all the difference, especially if you’re keen to see pups or catch a haul-out in action. 

Here’s a quick guide to what to expect by season: 

• Winter (June–August): Large male seals often haul out along rocky coastlines to rest, particularly in places like Wellington’s Red Rocks. 

• Spring and summer (October–March): The best time to see pups, especially around Kaikōura. You’re more likely to see them active near the shoreline during these warmer months. 

• Autumn (April–May): Fewer pups around, but adult seals can still be seen in many locations. 

If you’re travelling by campervan, keep in mind that coastal weather can be unpredictable. Sudden changes in wind or tide may affect viewing conditions, so it’s a good idea to check local forecasts and road access before heading out. 

Responsible wildlife viewing tips

Spending time near wild seals is a real privilege – and with a few simple habits, you can help make sure they stay safe and undisturbed. It’s all about giving them space and respecting their environment. Keep these tips in mind: 

• Stay at least 20 metres away from seals at all times – more if they seem agitated or are with pups. 

• Never block a seal’s path to the water – always stay off to the side. 

• Don’t feed, touch, or approach them – seals are wild animals and can become aggressive if they feel threatened. 

• Use a zoom lens for photos and avoid flash photography. 

• Leave no trace – take all rubbish with you and avoid loud noises or sudden movements. 

A bit of care goes a long way – following these simple steps helps protect the seals and keeps the experience enjoyable for everyone. 

Ready to spot seals on your New Zealand road trip?

From the rocky shores of Kaikōura to the wild coastlines of the Catlins, New Zealand is full of great places to see seals in their natural habitat. Whether you're wandering the Red Rocks Coastal Walk in Wellington or watching pups play along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, seal spotting is a relaxed and rewarding part of any campervan trip. 

Add a few of these stop-offs to your route, pack a pair of binoculars and a decent camera, and enjoy the chance to see these curious creatures up close. Don’t forget to plan ahead by booking your campgrounds or holiday parks through the thl Roadtrip app. 

Ready to hit the road? Book your maui campervan online today. 

FAQs

When is the best time to see seals in New Zealand?

You can see seals year-round, but the best sightings tend to happen during spring and summer (October–March), when pups are born and more active near shore. In winter, you’re more likely to see large males hauled out along rocky coastlines – a common sight along Wellington’s Red Rocks. 

Where are seals found in New Zealand?

Seals are commonly seen all around the coast of both the North and South Islands. Top spots include Kaikōura, the Otago Peninsula, Cape Foulwind, Banks Peninsula, and Nugget Point. They’re often found basking on rocks or beaches just off popular coastal tracks. 

Where can you see sea lions in New Zealand?  

New Zealand sea lions are less common than fur seals and are mostly found in the southern South Island, especially around The Catlins, Sandfly Bay on the Otago Peninsula, and parts of Stewart Island. They’re larger and more robust than fur seals, and it's important to keep an even greater distance – at least 20 metres – as they can be aggressive if approached. 

Are there elephant seals in New Zealand?

Elephant seals are rare visitors to New Zealand but have been occasionally spotted on remote beaches, particularly in the subantarctic islands and sometimes in the southern South Island. These massive seals are not commonly seen by travellers, so spotting one is considered a rare treat. For more about New Zealand’s native marine mammals, visit the Department of Conservation’s seal information page.