Sharks have been spotted swimming in the shores of Papamoa Beach this weekend – but lifeguards say this is normal behaviour.

A shark was spotted swimming near Golden Sands in Papamoa on Saturday. Photos: Mark Gaskell.

SunLive reader Mark Gaskell sent in some photos of a shark spotted in the waters near Golden Sands in Papamoa about 4pm on Saturday. He says there was no-one swimming at the time.

SunLive has also heard reports of another shark sighting in Papamoa this morning.

Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club volunteer lifeguard Hamish Smith says he hasn't yet heard any reports of a shark in the area but says if it's a ‘bronzey' – or bronze whaler shark – there's usually nothing to be afraid of.

'The best bet is to leave them alone. They're usually just going through looking for stingrays and things like that.

'Generally they're only little ‘bronzies' sands sharks,” says Hamish, who often sees this type of shark in the waters.

'It's just something to watch for but we just try and advise to leave them alone and let them swim past.”

The bronze whaler, also known as the narrowtooth or copper shark, can grow up to 3.3m long. These sharks are believed to be unfriendly to humans but usually don't harm anyone unless there is a presence of food or prey.

Have you spotted a shark swimming at the beach? Send your information and photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz