Tauranga, New Zealand — Authorities in New Zealand are investigating after a video surfaced of a teenager brutally assaulting an octopus on a Bay of Plenty beach. The Ministry for Primary Industries confirmed it had begun an inquiry following several complaints prompted by the distressing footage, which was initially shared on the teenager’s Instagram story.
The video, which sparked widespread outrage online, shows the young individual repeatedly hitting and kicking the marine animal. Recognizing the gravity of the incident, the ministry described the actions seen in the video as “unacceptable” and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted.
The local police also reported receiving an online tip on January 25 regarding the incident. They are now looking into the matter, which they treated seriously due to the violent nature of the act depicted.
Animal welfare organization SAFE has been vocal in condemning the actions in the video. Debra Ashton, the chief executive of SAFE, expressed her distress, labeling the incident a “senseless and violent attack on an innocent sea creature.” Ashton revealed that SAFE had lodged a formal complaint with the Ministry for Primary Industries, which has referred the case to its investigations team.
SAFE hopes that by shedding light on this incident, more witnesses or informants will come forward to help identify the perpetrator. Ashton emphasized the urgency of imposing accountability to prevent any future harm to other animals, stating, “These people need to be stopped before they carry out these types of attacks on others.”
While the Tauranga Sport Fishing Club was made aware of the incident, a representative asserted that the individuals in the video do not appear to be club members. The club has deferred any further comments to its committee.
Meanwhile, the Department of Conservation has opted not to comment, deferring instead to the Ministry for Primary Industries as the lead organization in this case. The SPCA has also been approached to provide their input on the matter.
This investigation brings to light ongoing concerns regarding animal welfare and the accountability of individuals in their treatment of wildlife, urging societal reflection on the protection and ethical treatment of all creatures, especially in natural habitats.