A seal has been spotted on a Tauranga street this morning.

SunLive readers have messaged us on Facebook to say there is a seal on Fraser Street, opposite Big Save Furniture.

"It's quite dark out, so a few tradies have pulled over so people don't hit it."

Another reader says "there's a seal in the middle of the road near Fraser Cove holding up traffic".

Motorists are being advised to drive with care in the area, expect delays or avoid the area if possible.

Seals have been known to be spotted around the city over the years.

In June 2018, a large seal was seen on Takitimu Drive. It was seen heading towards a smal creek nearby.

The Department of Conservation website states that from July to September each year there's an influx in adolescent seals appearing on our shores and further inland. This is because seal pups begin to wean as their mothers prepare for new pups.

DOC recommends that on finding a New Zealand fur seal it's usually best to leave it alone, however, there are exceptions.

DOC takes a ‘hands off' approach to seals. Seals are capable and resilient and given time and space, they usually find their way home.

Seals are wild animals and will defend themselves if they feel threatened. Adult seals can move surprisingly quickly on land. While they can look harmless, seals can inflict serious injuries to dogs or people and can carry infectious diseases.

It is an offence under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 to disturb, harass, harm, injure or kill a seal. A dog owner whose dog attacks a seal could face prosecution.

DOC provide safety guidelines when watching seals. You should stay at least 20 m away, don't disturb seals by making loud noises or throwing things, keep dogs and children away, don't feed the seals, and never attempt to touch a seal.

More information on seals and what to do if you come across one can be found on the Department of Conservation website http://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/marine-mammals/seals/nz-fur-seal/what-to-do/

At the scene?

Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz