| Date of attack: | April 30th 2022 |
|---|---|
| Location: | Pointe des pecheurs, Punaahuia, Tahiti |
| Shark species: | Tiger shark, 2 to 2.5m |
| Name of victim: | Hakahei Huuti |
| Age of victim: | 22 years old |
| Sex of victim: | M |
| Activity: | |
| Injury: | Cut to knee |
Bodyboarder Injured in Shark Encounter at Pointe des Pêcheurs, Tahiti
On April 30, 2022, 22-year-old Hakahei Huuti was bodyboarding at Pointe des Pêcheurs in Punaauia, Tahiti, when he was injured in a shark encounter. The incident occurred in the morning and involved a tiger shark estimated to be between 2 and 2.5 metres long.
Huuti recalled seeing the shark at the last moment and instinctively lifting his foot. He described the shark as appearing nervous and possibly hungry. Although he avoided a direct attack, he sustained a cut to his knee, likely from one of the shark’s teeth. He managed to catch a wave back to shore, where emergency responders from the Punaauia Fire Department provided first aid before transporting him to Taaone Hospital. His injury required 13 stitches.
The incident has sparked debate within the local surfing community, with concerns that shark feeding by divers may have contributed to the shark’s behaviour. While divers deny responsibility, the Mayor temporarily closed the beach and is working with scientists on a potential maritime management plan.
Despite the injury, shark attacks in the area remain rare.
Map showing shark attack location and nearby incidents
