Swimmer has close encounter with orcas

In a remarkable incident that captivated onlookers and social media users, Joel Crampton found himself in close proximity to a pair of orca whales during an evening swim at Wellington’s Oriental Bay. The encounter, which occurred on January 17, 2026, was filmed by witnesses from the shore and quickly went viral, drawing attention to the presence of these majestic predators in urban coastal areas. Crampton, who had developed a nightly routine of swimming out to a pontoon in the bay, was lying on his back when he heard a loud spouting noise. Initially unsure of the source, he soon realized that two orcas were surfacing nearby, their distinct fins breaking the water’s surface. The whales, identified as a large male and a smaller female, began circling the pontoon, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring scene. From the shore, a group of observers watched in amazement, with one person whistling to get Crampton’s attention and another jokingly suggesting he jump into the water. The footage captures the moment the orcas approach, with onlookers commenting on the ‘oblivious man’ lying peacefully as the marine giants glided around him. This spontaneous documentation added a layer of public engagement to the encounter. Orcas, also known as killer whales, are not uncommon in Wellington Harbour, especially during the spring and summer months when they hunt for stingrays. According to the Department of Conservation, these intelligent mammals are often seen in the area, but close interactions with swimmers are rare. This event highlights the unpredictable nature of wildlife in human-occupied spaces. Despite the potential danger, Crampton remained calm throughout the encounter. He described feeling ‘stunned and awestruck’ by the presence of the orcas, noting their graceful movements and the sheer size of the male’s dorsal fin. After a few minutes, when the whales moved away, he carefully swam back to shore, unharmed but deeply moved by the experience. The viral video has sparked discussions about marine conservation and the importance of respecting wildlife habitats. It serves as a reminder that even in urban settings, nature can present unexpected moments of wonder. Authorities emphasize maintaining a safe distance from wild animals, but this encounter occurred organically, without any provocation from Crampton. Looking ahead, such incidents may become more frequent as human and marine life interactions increase. Conservationists hope that stories like this will raise awareness about protecting orca populations and their ecosystems. For now, Crampton’s encounter stands as a testament to the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world.