The World Surf League’s New Zealand Pro finals in Raglan stopped when a water‑borne photographer was mauled by an unidentified sea creature during the men’s semi‑finals. Brazilian rivals Yago Dora and Italo Ferreira were riding the wave when the attack occurred, prompting officials to trigger a code red and suspend competition.

Vice‑president of tours Renato Hickel confirmed the photographer sustained small puncture wounds and was taken to hospital. He said medical staff could not determine whether a shark or a sea lion caused the bites, though the doctor leaned toward a sea lion. Paramedics reached scene minutes, stabilising photographer before transport. The incident rattled Dora and Ferreira, who saw the splash and halted their runs.

Organisers hope to resume the event later in the day, but the pause disrupts the schedule and adds pressure on the remaining heats. A delayed finish could affect the surfers’ points haul toward the season‑long championship race, making every recovered minute crucial for competitors eyeing a world title.