Great whites have been seen in a Waikato harbour. Photo: AFP
The Department of Conservation (DoC) is alerting swimmers to look out for great white sharks after sightings in the Kawhia harbour in Waikato over recent weeks.
A video posted on a Kawhia community Facebook page showed what appeared to be a great white approaching a fishing boat.
"Two great whites were seen in the harbour yesterday by our local kids swimming quite close to the wharf," the post reads. "Thought I better post before everyone lets their tamariki go swimming."
DoC has issued a warning on its social media page, urging people to avoid swimming in areas where sharks have recently been seen.
"If you do see a great white shark while swimming you should quickly and calmly get out of the water.
"They often come into harbours in search of food and are attracted to recreational fishing vessels using berley," it said in the statement.
DoC said it is not unusual for more sharks to be seen along coastlines at this time of the year, as waters start warming up.
Great white sharks are a protected species, and DoC is asking the public to report any sightings or accidental captures by calling 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) or emailing sharks@doc.govt.nz.
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