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Hector's dolphins and Hooker's sea lions are unique species of animals that can be spotted along the coast of New Zealand. And when you choose a locum assignment in the country, you can view these creatures that reside nowhere else in the world.
The Catlins lies on the south eastern coast of New Zealand's South Island. Known for its remoteness and low population—the largest township, Owaka, boasts only 400 residents—the region is an ideal habitat for native animals to roam free without disturbances.
A mix of warm and cool waters immediately off the coast produces a surge of nutrients for aquatic animals like the Hector's dolphin, the rarest and smallest member of the species. Found only off the New Zealand coast, the notable mammal was deemed a threatened species in 1999. They typically only swim near the shore when swimmers aren't close. Lucky individuals can spot them in the waters of the Porpoise Bay and Curio.
Another unique animal, the New Zealand sea lion, has no problem cozying up to spectators while basking in the sun. This lack of fear is perhaps because of its massive size—a mature bull sea lion can weigh up to 1,100 pounds. As one of the most threatened species of sea lion in the world, your chance to see them may only arise when you visit New Zealand on a locum assignment.