| Date of attack: | December 18th 2023 |
|---|---|
| Location: | Riverton, South Island |
| Shark species: | Sevengill shark |
| Name of victim: | female |
| Age of victim: | 21 years old |
| Sex of victim: | F |
| Activity: | Wading |
| Injury: | Significant injury to leg |
Shark Attack in New Zealand Leaves Woman Injured
A 21-year-old woman was bitten by a shark while wading in knee-deep water near Riverton, South Island, New Zealand, on 18 December 2023. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. in an estuary near the Riverton rugby grounds.
Residents had reported an increase in sevengill sharks in the area. The victim suffered a significant leg injury and was transported to Southland Hospital in a serious but stable condition. Local police believe the attack involved a sevengill shark, with the time of day possibly playing a role.
Authorities urged caution in the area, though local fishermen regularly spot sharks in the estuary.
