WELLINGTON, New Zealand — An unexpected visitor disrupted the tranquil Sunday evening atmosphere at Sprig + Fern The Meadows craft beer bar in Richmond, New Zealand, when a juvenile fur seal galumphed into the establishment far below the legal drinking age. The curious marine mammal, later named Fern by staff, wandered into the pet-friendly venue located at the top of the South Island during a rainy evening.
Co-owner Bella Evans initially mistook the creature for a canine before realizing their unusual patron was actually a lost seal pup. “Everyone was in shock,” Evans recounted. “Oh my gosh. What do we do? What’s going on?”
Patrons sprang into action as the seal evaded capture, darting into a restroom before ultimately hiding beneath the bar’s dishwasher, which staff promptly unplugged for safety. The situation required creative problem-solving: one customer retrieved a dog crate from home while Evans devised a plan using salmon pizza toppings from the menu to lure the adventurous visitor from its hiding spot.
Conservation rangers, who had been tracking the wandering seal throughout the day, arrived promptly. Department of Conservation spokesperson Helen Otley confirmed they had received “numerous” public reports about the Richmond seal before its pub appearance, praising bar staff for “doing a great job keeping the seal safe” during the unusual incident.
The young seal was successfully transported and released on nearby Rabbit Island, selected for its dog-free environment. Otley explained that such behavior is normal for curious young seals during this season, as they frequently follow rivers and streams up to 15 kilometers inland during their exploratory phase.
This incident reflects the success of New Zealand’s conservation programs, which have resulted in growing seal and sea lion populations bringing these marine mammals into closer contact with humans. Scientists refer to an annual “silly season” when both species regularly appear in unexpected locations including houses, golf courses, and busy roads.
Despite being the first unruly patron Evans has had to evict since taking ownership of the pub months ago, the co-owner extended an open invitation to Fern, noting the establishment had gained the “seal of approval” through the memorable encounter. Salmon will remain on the menu.