Sharks of the Hauraki Gulf

Sharks of the Hauraki Gulf
 
New Zealand has the wonderful reputation as a place where none of the wildlife could possibly hurt you!  In the ocean we do have other interesting creatures that include sharks - shark attacks in New Zealand are rarely heard of!
 
For the most part, the sharks are simply another fantastic addition to our diverse array of wildlife.
 
Here are a few of the sharks you might spot out in the Hauraki Gulf.
 
Thresher sharks
 
Thresher sharks may look menacing with their 4.6-metre lengths and extraordinarily long tail fins, but these sea creatures prefer the taste of fish and seabirds. They cleverly use these long tails to ‘herd’ school of fish together for a meal.
 
Great Whites
 
The fearsome Great White shark is a regular visitor to the Hauraki Gulf, and is known more than any other to attack humans. These huge sharks can grow up to 7 metres in length, and are common throughout New Zealand, but are most often seen around the Otago region.
 
Blue sharks
 
Blue sharks can be found all over the world, and they’re known for their fast speeds and graceful bodies. They like cooler waters and usually feast on squid or fish. It’s rare for them to be anything other than peaceful around people, but there are instances of Blue shark attacks, so be sure to keep your distance just in case.
 
Hammerheads
 
With their distinct head shape, it’s easy to identify a hammerhead shark! These sharks are found all over the world, and tend to show up in New Zealand waters through the warmer months, and it’s even believed that they might give birth around our country.
 
Short-fin makos
 
The mako shark is the fastest in the world, and are a point of pride for fishermen who manage to snag one of these tough and speedy creatures. They prefer tropical waters, and can live anywhere from the open sea right up close to land in coastal areas.
 
Bronze whaler
 
Probably the most common of sharks to be found in Auckland waters, as it prefers tropical and temperate waters worldwide.  They can grow to 3 meters long.

Blue shark are found in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf. Photo credit Te Ara Govt