Of 19 fur seals in Kaiko¯ura, says DOC

aging, we can’t be certain of the outcome at this stage. We continue to appeal for people to come forward if they have information about the seals’ deaths, however insignificant they think it may be.’’

DOC staff believed other people in the community could corroborate the recent information received – and further information from residents could prove vital, Hall said.

‘‘DOC and Te Ru¯ nanga o Kaiko¯ ura are deeply concerned about the callous killing of legally protected native fur seals, and we hope with public help we will be able to identify and prosecute those responsible and hold them to account.’’

The Marine Mammals Protection Act included a clause limiting the timeframe in which someone could be charged to a year from the date of the offence.

Hall said DOC was keen to see a charge laid before time ran out.

The penalties for harassing, disturbing, injuring or killing a marine mammal under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 are up to two years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to $250,000. Anyone who has information is asked to contact the DOC 24-hour number 0800 DOCHOT/0800 36 24 68 or Kaiko¯ ura Police via 105 and quote file number 211103/1981. Alternatively,information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.