Spotted shags

These are Spotted Shags (Phalacrocorax punctatuspaint), a species of cormorant endemic to New Zealand. The rocky intertidal zone below Tairoa Head is a favorite spot for them to congregate. So much so that they paint the rocks white with their guano.

These are mostly young, juvenile birds who have recently fledged and been kicked out of their parents nests. They often gather here, with one foot close to home, the other in the sea.