"Bloody jetskis" have riled up residents on the Hibiscus Coast, north Auckland, after driving too close to visiting orca.

A small pod of orca - which allegedly included a juvenile - visited Manly Beach, Whangaparāoa, on the morning of May 26.

The excitement of beachgoers however quickly turned to exasperation, as a trio riding jetskis "hooned" around the pod.

SUPPLIED

An orca visit to Manly Beach, Whangaparaoa, was somewhat spoiled by pesky jetskis.

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"[Jetskis] have been a problem this summer, and they seem to be breeding," a witness who chose not to be named said.

Swift retribution in the form of a police launch intercepted the riders, who were then met at the Tindalls Bay boat ramp by two police officers.

"The fact they actually called a car to speak to them on the beach is very cool. They're taking it seriously which is great," the witness said.

Boats - including jetskis and standup paddle boards - must travel at less than 10 knots within 300 metres of any marine mammal, approaching them from behind and to the side, not crossing in front or through the group.

No more than three boats are allowed at any one time within 300m of the animals, and boaties must keep at least 50m from whales and orca and 200m from a mother and calf.

If you see anyone breaking the rules or harassing marine mammals, phone the DOC Hotline on 0800 362 486.

Any offence carries a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment or $250,000 fine.

 - Rodney Times