Featured Image Credit: Caters News
By Sarah Sharkey
Two kayakers, Barry Hosking and Ed Parker, were participating in an annual row around the coast of Stewart Island when they were pleasantly surprised.
Stewart Island is located 30 kilometers south of the South Island and a popular destination for kayakers. For several kilometers, a playful young sea lion had been following the group. The kayakers kept one paddling through waters south of New Zealand and the inquisitive animal swam alongside them.
The curious creature spent some time investigating these people on yellow boats. Soon he was bold enough to start riding waves towards the kayakers, just to see what would happen.
But then, just about one kilometer from land, the lively sea lion could no longer contain his excitement. He had to say hello to the two men paddling these yellow boats. So he jumped over one of the kayaks! And posed for a picture mid flight!
The kayakers were in awe of the mischievous pinniped. They were very lucky to have the chance to interact with such a friendly creature, and we are lucky that their cameras were rolling because this face is priceless.